| Scrape | 23 |
|---|---|
| Id | 991 |
| Active | 1 |
| Created Epoch | 1,718,323,204 |
| Modified Epoch | 1,723,333,712 |
| Scrape Epoch | 1,718,323,322 |
| Created | 6/13/24, 7:00 PM |
| Modified | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM |
| Status | completed |
| Notes | |
| Dataset External No | 991 |
| Filename |
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| 1878382 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/20/25, 5:31 PM | 1718324566 | 1750458663 | 991 | 317408964639427 | 3 | 3.7650433206542E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999697280151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772310 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447276931_1212739233424621_8915887491775537581_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9tqC-1zvFgYQ7kNvgFyw9GX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCs9qPrBnZVT90sfoygaRA9B9TRJ7NIUdwc75DSzhnDhQ&oe=667143F6 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447786516_872173128259817_692701277841249667_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hRgD1AUUPeUQ7kNvgEMxWAf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAktr5GNzg-GTMBcFnWLVLoV98EsMjjFJyiSjcshbzwew&oe=667146A8 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT06OIGlVfT0HmFtFfcO0hXYfx4xCu0hPKaoh5zaz1RbjyE0y3IpxvzlBHzWK5Js8d-RpEx1gYMQ3TDwSTztJSwy1mewTGQQTgzH_6T2ijuP8OejzQgug54TEcPZ5PyC0HTytGg2gA3DGA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877749 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 6/9/25, 5:53 AM | 1718324463 | 1749466409 | 991 | 457010193749238 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120209490345650724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Full Body Waist Cooling Fan | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/coolify%E2%84%A2-zone-2-waist-cooling-fan | 1718160838 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448107583_988874692826805_4695500513325828659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dTGlTqV2a0YQ7kNvgGMf3Th&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAElkVOF2FR4kg8MCpzLLoZtAPAJYNR1t8QO0g1HDFEtg&oe=66715D18 | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447796667_485452584146789_2505529702813756697_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hD5RiFFEftYQ7kNvgEmn3jA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAHzBXz-VkyaJnnMturcrgPLmkIQQqi6oQ_CVB72Fg8zg&oe=66715444 | 0 | 3 | ❄️ Stay cool and comfortable this summer with the Norvure Coolify™ Zone 2 Waist Cooling Fan.<br /> <br /> 🌀 Experience superior cooling power with its ultra-wide angle air outlet, delivering impressive airflow from head to waist.<br /> <br /> 🔋 Enjoy up to 15 hours of continuous cooling with the robust 5000mAh battery and 20W fast charging.<br /> <br /> 🌿 Benefit from advanced PCM cooling material that absorbs and dissipates body heat effectively.<br /> <br /> 🎒 Designed for hands-free convenience with two different-sized belts for a perfect fit.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | HappyMe's | 4240 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878581 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/21/25, 7:05 PM | 1718324570 | 1737507946 | 991 | 977312370698302 | 1 | 3.6717050230972E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511740180227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079684 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447965795_2452084038515711_1294755093150632872_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4StJoorKVJoQ7kNvgEaZpHO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAi8wb-lhEkqvAODam8V3IVw0PLoj7fWBoytIdf2k3bgw&oe=667173D4 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447826243_1191797901819936_2177667776081874347_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pBeVpbbadyAQ7kNvgGZDEUs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAObJg6utRD-O94KAEJzjAkLFN-kYFVyPgK094bCCQIMA&oe=66715FCB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878571 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/2/25, 10:19 PM | 1718324570 | 1735877983 | 991 | 935217335018973 | 1 | 1.4567008952341E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223930910571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255748 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448164926_3032290460247389_8975088109773530752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=izRMO4Rb32sQ7kNvgEmCxyI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAeWBErjSu7PNKQA72EcDBv_2ipOZkDdy9LvcLKaWziaQ&oe=66714B92 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448242517_841566414525741_6127678972807502397_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EcwsBbqX_V0Q7kNvgGZ_N0e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJ3jBV0y7OKvffzEnYX1xUJEcnrrrXveNmEZ6MGv2ANg&oe=66714B93 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878616 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/19/24, 10:45 AM | 1718324571 | 1734626755 | 991 | 1129841778415738 | 2 | 4.3134058308424E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146861880571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897607 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447975665_482505134281479_3900410918365496158_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c_w5LhEzmnMQ7kNvgH8DxWI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAzsT-yGdkdE3EbNUgnjRPJjW4m7iG11gMWyAjexX8b3w&oe=66716348 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447976827_742046114672997_2942665309193001879_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-Z5XvDpokOMQ7kNvgFlw8ki&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCIUwwNJl9dV9x9s7TxKq7eMCwxw_ICXHFPY7Fl6XDo8Q&oe=66714B4A | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878508 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/9/25, 10:00 PM | 1718324568 | 1752116433 | 991 | 489242873573430 | 2 | 4.6728562571324E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511659330227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079486 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448088228_776417384474480_4628221628528752377_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=__l_8AaQR5MQ7kNvgGLUb8D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5trJ1gRcm7BYeC8VM4-hD082XDlYukl0bkr1U9fKzlw&oe=66715E1F | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448158743_7713205562106103_590505973458908142_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BG7t209MA3oQ7kNvgFL8LR3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDrtehz3MOrB5jpZ0b61O5BuPKC8QktZvvZ2eTfWhKtuw&oe=66715CDB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878619 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/18/24, 12:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1724003282 | 991 | 1143294876973136 | 2 | 1.0124645671642E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146878790571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897663 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447760785_1102186730877533_6587170759345684884_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wGV89vjWuGQQ7kNvgE6WeA-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDZK-lpyzeymVZ4g7Qs_RgPTng_ibyn--btiVFKzSz6hQ&oe=66716EB0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447772846_7086442721456711_2397067960383568336_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xq7iGL5agFQQ7kNvgHxBcru&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1u0itDgq066HbXcBN9sop52d5n0fzyq6hkst4_9t2WA&oe=667149C0 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878612 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/7/25, 1:05 AM | 1718324571 | 1749276329 | 991 | 1113201413084471 | 2 | 1.1470492165659E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208224011350571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255812 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448217620_450337181075671_1208231897918849214_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RVdH0I6MRV8Q7kNvgFlvMc_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC4yNxe4P53cmyf5rkLk847aw0Tzp5aCYZqnK92Qfq-Lw&oe=66714ED9 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480336_788302896771762_7143440611492150729_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VPopnYFAO-8Q7kNvgHYm-Sw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAfl9_tXMQqLNKyH8gs30PtNgqKZt3CnYFLp8Q6xt3YGg&oe=66715F92 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878457 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/3/25, 5:26 PM | 1718324568 | 1748989601 | 991 | 364947409543801 | 2 | 1.1806898864674E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179754500571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075788 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448161584_758983239650292_22499211221151286_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Lq8b7ZqlbycQ7kNvgGVZ_iV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBVBzFqt0wkEvEhGTZlAL0a_6o8nyv8OXIjYpGns9Zutg&oe=667157DA | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447967612_450929787647402_13667598663185008_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ayom99-vvbgQ7kNvgHFzDsV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB80eHKwXov8qBCztRZHOeGAg5QVfnsJ93EalLIiPmSXg&oe=66716451 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878501 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/7/25, 11:10 AM | 1718324568 | 1749312616 | 991 | 479255584548485 | 1 | 1.5401610302569E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146789700571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897359 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447740883_510785608186503_7206159601616151335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lyDeBJglUiYQ7kNvgEpsER9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBtMTJ5aQffUrz0lQbWIEhIpAUZgc-igDAhFpiIIOj4ZA&oe=667178FC | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447297252_481028830990445_8074313362728116682_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dIadwFpq90QQ7kNvgHfseG6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA4goSE_qJN9dBwDdUvZx4DEmYx-mMF91aJrnwRZWa0bA&oe=667146F2 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878495 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/7/25, 5:06 PM | 1718324568 | 1749334008 | 991 | 476269778226278 | 2 | 1.141226043808E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146726820571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897209 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447757211_983829546347687_4366134491882547316_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PNReke25ya8Q7kNvgFYIEOb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw8g5FRcKjxlv39IgzgORe4g3DIECfPYBcSmF2Qqsrtg&oe=667171F6 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447964225_391355019938496_2353135833303270565_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OXDDQDccWp4Q7kNvgFai1jp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAt6Xjyzr9vCW0XTUCFBwHDF0qVhOMG2DSetcO5ScbkRg&oe=667145D9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878633 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/7/25, 5:06 PM | 1718324571 | 1749334013 | 991 | 1402176267136058 | 2 | 1.5015727407944E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911899590331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079256 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448164993_1112809913131686_3114700509948151843_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XXw1UdAPJZcQ7kNvgG1DVBk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJzEhdKadzBI6GC98Xuc4rxSAXC2n9AO8FDPMyeZzBQw&oe=66716638 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448018993_261810306992006_1176785296967316444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZGyt2Sl3anEQ7kNvgHN4kzf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAfg8Yk9vehvgQhwE7hFu__mbrXIJ5tEEPv-xt4F7b5Hw&oe=66715E1B | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878630 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/28/24, 6:38 PM | 1718324571 | 1735432726 | 991 | 1270316637672406 | 1 | 7.5595015974309E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911903140331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079260 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448163132_979683993666088_3617511290973646912_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uol4N1bPWJQQ7kNvgEhpkPW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAoRxPMeXbA5Asmxm7r2MzXRj6kkrkhD8KL1CQ_XZ1LzA&oe=66715A4D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448058181_1134240827831402_457563435667534204_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5DlzEe_t_1IQ7kNvgEdA6bU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDFtkOA2bk-URxygBae84iW5l5y1opXtxRzz_oUjEjwPA&oe=66716F65 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878488 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/14/25, 8:54 AM | 1718324568 | 1752501247 | 991 | 442542905347760 | 2 | 6.9368166620379E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266455960109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075851 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447901346_3256263554667727_5864091619213836046_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d141SJxCRNoQ7kNvgGNVtAW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3FTmiWF1zD2uFEXXOs5ziWEiyP5xZZf4VY9ppw1jKcA&oe=66714997 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448020288_482093847823399_8200624821620706476_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4nRdHOGk3IMQ7kNvgGryXEZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB9Y2s0eUK3yVi-NeGUQGaqf0YpXNx5Kw2gcFvsAxMjfg&oe=6671705A | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878582 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 2:38 AM | 1718324570 | 1749368307 | 991 | 978020094059253 | 1 | 3.7330780862912E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223892400571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255706 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448211201_7307954239309903_253720775880091027_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wGtOhDZ3O1IQ7kNvgE0z7YX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD3n-nLJNOqRs1x8uOrxnSkSMXWj_hq1G_kaqxC4IFWRA&oe=66715703 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448348061_447621824546199_1618472003028577691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p3wxJKKBMBUQ7kNvgEZwNlG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6D2GdcUEAdDXRHMul4qiSq4SiyMki65i--C1TGvdt0g&oe=66715955 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878552 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/3/25, 2:10 AM | 1718324569 | 1751526605 | 991 | 826265352298185 | 3 | 3.1064106212119E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266417730109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075795 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448232491_1952466991857323_2500592211609903072_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KzIPcjiMTvEQ7kNvgG5BRBU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCi_-ijSypqw0EfnctkCpd0KmaAVi_IIYVZvFYNgDX9Dg&oe=667154FE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448136196_1004043951375971_7177910391650014368_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3tpsFQmiyZEQ7kNvgEpyY7K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZY0nTleESztxcSZLfY_XWFME9Zm2VwunKAjrjydyqGA&oe=66714325 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878520 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 9:15 AM | 1718324569 | 1749392113 | 991 | 701575862052293 | 1 | 1.2614485281601E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120208912836420331 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=243380358820866&jump=1 | 1718084815 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448027921_380554231155640_458975302177912605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_BPuIIaeB9cQ7kNvgE1W2gE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCkvMajEJnHBeaD2C_z_cIoEujDwIkTMtaOYEYrtVWYnw&oe=66715A65 | person_profile | 0 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448017943_8149494788396141_7696255019748251741_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n7SuP5HDk9gQ7kNvgFJdDMU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAVYQpFGBNjTXQTzKUGVpFjd8eyI3YlyGPYrw7-C0ciYg&oe=667156C9 | 0 | 3 | Episodios de 1 minuto, tramas inverosímiles y nuevos episodios que se actualizan diariamente. Haga clic abajo para ver la serie completa. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878479 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 11:51 AM | 1718324568 | 1749401492 | 991 | 432201626300231 | 2 | 2.0165640120792E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179748720571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075760 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447839740_337949829165307_5419306908020715907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IzooxO11g3YQ7kNvgETnOsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCjAyM8M_pOKAMovsiogxQKYhPQDv5abFDQcLaHt76c7Q&oe=66716965 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448108237_398954033147982_1886734847513603829_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BPbuVD4lu7QQ7kNvgFADUiM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBR-Fd3G9lFFHIC-n7jhUjRHaONHipk-ieshPOhrKBVow&oe=66714937 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878559 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/15/25, 3:54 AM | 1718324570 | 1752569644 | 991 | 834636855183552 | 2 | 1.1982654613532E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180075930571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076110 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448225335_918914896671975_1206002420529566825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yXkqFoLTkwsQ7kNvgH4X1-I&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDlqrGK0WsN3B9q3WfL8Feuxwtreqi7yhVe20PveNIteA&oe=667173BB | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448098251_772820118334038_4997535258407516944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rADE3Gt3wB4Q7kNvgEP3KmP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCth7fJb7A11EhyFzVokBXN_R45Zucz1hcSPrlJVfXfBQ&oe=66716FD7 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878545 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/17/24, 3:37 PM | 1718324569 | 1734471422 | 991 | 812093927229575 | 2 | 1.1976025845963E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146749610571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897270 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448036483_419709944379405_97937961250862324_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Oibv6JxppVYQ7kNvgE2tHK2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3kAxGb9oF1ZJ6qQn063E2je73Gb_dsDUyuEQk64oycQ&oe=66716786 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448124663_464780296097364_6510694213363812746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wHpfjqAwupAQ7kNvgFovE2-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBnukQvdFMM6HXISFSQtq0YGDqFrnbaepAu4fi16Iin0Q&oe=66716837 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878461 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 4/4/25, 11:14 PM | 1718324568 | 1743826474 | 991 | 378178395370320 | 2 | 1.188846615588E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511806800227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079822 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447782088_7794747417251503_2740372635542933296_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kJvdt62jh8cQ7kNvgGvZUOn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDBLPeTnRpwLSzsOmSAkI3pK42OSKjp1mS9x21ndSGNPg&oe=66716703 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448142538_973958564190841_7137635496943016331_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FcgrjA3xaPIQ7kNvgH0srTL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAEbPgNLV1DMBZF487Qb41TgQ8uzzWmj_6qJOUfKu4vrA&oe=667158CB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878500 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 2:00 PM | 1718324568 | 1749409235 | 991 | 478745981344339 | 3 | 1.1841321462675E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267139650109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076641 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448185642_2019127978488853_992910854550468359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VScQMceokQYQ7kNvgGkbOjH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBksWV4MoMSyBaL7rfjCMDvUAljGeweqfse33bA2DMi2g&oe=66716F47 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447905448_996760538507625_3115503717947951389_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2qEHEPbJau4Q7kNvgEfUcIi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBGLg35xxdrzHTKpXFSkzP1A1kEI-FGiH0DAzrBdWPSsQ&oe=66717A3D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878512 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/17/24, 10:46 PM | 1718324569 | 1734497186 | 991 | 492630199871213 | 3 | 2.2293521707429E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179999810571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076032 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448095768_3725534254353077_3354088630604770422_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0tCr9iZTI00Q7kNvgGrW4Np&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB-4_cpsNb92Umt8UtCZdO1fg5YlWY5ZMo-2nLMQrc2rQ&oe=6671481E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448098010_487374326965918_993013787697475706_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5aJALKhZKrIQ7kNvgGAZ7Fr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRjejBUCgqj6guI07Sqj-7gciCxV0avv5DDhYSVRwpmw&oe=66715BCB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878490 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/18/24, 11:34 PM | 1718324568 | 1734586487 | 991 | 449534377783087 | 3 | 3.8403934799105E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267225700109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076764 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447785474_850922820189726_4729343418364458059_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2FgkBzPcX_0Q7kNvgHaei8t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBmkMx78sxIjf2fwS1-CpGx1bzNYW4k4oBPl9_yCnrgnQ&oe=667149E7 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200274_3635487646765191_5719569639268748407_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wtdxTzcGVm0Q7kNvgGHcq_G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDh4rdlqr2O1IsCfkWsdI5WrRgfTBWHsrkDtEMB9kSzxQ&oe=6671672A | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878519 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/12/25, 8:59 AM | 1718324569 | 1736693953 | 991 | 679941240944533 | 2 | 3.7344145935089E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179977400571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076001 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448085085_491791873199207_5925978943624347018_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XipyM0DeW1cQ7kNvgFFCDvo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3YdOm24Gc3UGFQPHwvpuY_-yLiFW-LaUj6hgFzV2O9g&oe=66716635 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448085152_1726027784810827_7507368067217992217_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RAA3N_tdgsMQ7kNvgFhxAcZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDiMQ4IBDx927VuvTG7bqT9m97YGH7jrVZ19WeDw85ykw&oe=667155AA | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878565 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/8/25, 10:00 AM | 1718324570 | 1751986844 | 991 | 862961075674418 | 3 | 1.0085950039336E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179949430571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075946 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448171530_1502541160334817_128840223923909362_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EoVOofOmFNcQ7kNvgHahkda&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBiCSQAc7VmZcuHQHF9x3wc4MHFUB7K-ATsKZSvmLAUWQ&oe=66716462 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448135782_441111981867515_1721085146535507842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9VrE_IgBKq0Q7kNvgHQa1HE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDds85yTdJb3SDdbR6WS3Xy55y0n62WQa2-5mrhEc1XGQ&oe=66716351 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878449 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/9/25, 2:15 AM | 1718324567 | 1749453313 | 991 | 328588316956339 | 1 | 8.7620163121281E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511637340227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079438 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447966169_1646099239486133_5495039283062234304_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=37YBkLLn6uUQ7kNvgGhlTjN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGDeYg8iMym6Be62o4039raETbiA20ilYWQMJM4q8JAg&oe=66715FFA | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447796662_262962400207772_2037699655473592548_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EMBTRIhmcHQQ7kNvgEL3WLq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBds2DDtErw29qKxJSvN3OALUz8lBqX2BeYm5aSb0v5eQ&oe=66716B82 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878583 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/9/25, 1:48 AM | 1718324570 | 1749451694 | 991 | 980175916738224 | 3 | 8.2270510940519E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180176130571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076228 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210863_477567198157505_2540276904315481717_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OOlaykAJFhYQ7kNvgFHwUMC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDAX8yB6xkNbqiev_zz_0ba7GWCIOKBbDCAGE2dYP9ubw&oe=6671594B | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448046673_1189737205547837_4977789987817146548_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fLvqgwf7BPcQ7kNvgGrGI0R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCOwEk0qsiFeWmPfLAyn6ZNQhKTug68Idx-uSzQTFxQ9A&oe=667170FA | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878562 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 3/1/25, 7:20 AM | 1718324570 | 1740835229 | 991 | 849557183691174 | 1 | 9.3062413881271E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266429820109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075822 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447786441_2161676737533775_7268142800642407263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KI32Pv_0P6kQ7kNvgEpxYih&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwdozuQcnaJGW0cC00y4mMvvHdHuw2PKrw6geQazSv-Q&oe=667152BC | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448048755_1008318567484785_8111613320881696580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXuHI709xkgQ7kNvgEQRWWd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAb-kBCexWHrJTFOZ5YUUbtqPW0WnVmpAqybbbWwPAleA&oe=667167C4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878234 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333714 | 991 | 823186193195561 | 2 | 8.0277135791871E+14 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207415742550738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713691848 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439676940_7362821953755311_5256953621424023644_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_vc2CQ_HVzIQ7kNvgEbyWaX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAl1R3xo8xjoO6NzWQ7g10Qo4LiSVhLHLrgQqO_b1-RCA&oe=667177D7 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437583744_461330729810523_2224001464126544659_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vgcoiByPXU4Q7kNvgFQMiJK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgRohmh-W1ZMFardsI2x0FG__Ix89qAGrPxGHC99U5fg&oe=66715116 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> 😍😍Massive hit dramas🔞🔞Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuously❤️🔥 | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878266 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324527 | 1723333715 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878313 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324553 | 1723333716 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877881 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333717 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878128 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333717 | 991 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOikLX3Is90Q7kNvgEZ0Nil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFQ4KCosA0loOd4qa3mDr7wLGEMtjB6KcxC0frj5_vtQ&oe=66715848 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5YaHIcawK50Q7kNvgH3X9hf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYPKKZIoToUESGZhLjbV4sUgjDsSXbbxevxF8lE4BiYA&oe=66716648 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 644 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878193 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324513 | 1723333717 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878195 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324513 | 1723333717 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878533 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/21/25, 5:52 PM | 1718324569 | 1737503568 | 991 | 783529743904305 | 1 | 1.4986644874002E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180187120571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076244 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448245535_836634121659582_6395106763670208727_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SXn4_7qB3bEQ7kNvgHMCryb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSfxETsm0PbWH8Fph6eW0q7l4HkDLoACFGlf0uh0oTYQ&oe=66716070 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447972558_2954817544660622_1749501185863213985_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LWAGJCBr5toQ7kNvgEASd8t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCLaNSNKuBWQhNmXnCk2F9GFxkAHaPIDELVhIK_hOWjew&oe=66715831 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878255 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333717 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878274 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333717 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878012 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333717 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878393 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333717 | 991 | 340993465533094 | 1 | 3.9669470617216E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120206982972780427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Unlock Your Potential | Explore it all today! | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1704836305 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416113941_363694313032419_4109102183842661891_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uZK64lBVtQYQ7kNvgENW0sv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZGrAeFtisVrYn1ufTDzaImrurTEDYMOpZ8gDAjYOLJw&oe=66714977 | person_profile | 0 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418886170_6933829426693100_223903431400283034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DOtMgwabAsQQ7kNvgEMob3V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDsjat-mtx55w9Dj04j9yVDtGk0a8f4iD_-yh-RljSmnQ&oe=66714F61 | 0 | 3 | With a free library card, you can access world-class resources, millions of books, free internet, meeting rooms, or unwind with board games. | Clark County Public Library | 3939 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878510 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/8/25, 10:51 PM | 1718324569 | 1752033073 | 991 | 490338636674881 | 1 | 4.431159352486E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146729220571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897216 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447888407_829095405285086_2970158426179061358_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q5VELoFM_b0Q7kNvgEZ7biy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCKSbuerHSkMv_LVGBOkV-rFXsKVYCV282MntUANU7BOg&oe=6671496D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447886288_833934195264730_7835745812404072365_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JkXfKjEsDE8Q7kNvgGngE0S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBCB1VPABpJyY6wDOGNTfTMG7jr3p5x11G5aq0UzA4VUQ&oe=66715740 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878366 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333718 | 991 | 404984015794397 | 2 | 4.0092569606593E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114655308901931 | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 120210640543780771 | whitewater.app.rinsed.co | Get promotions | NONE | dco | Sign Up & Save | Receive offers & more! | https://whitewater.app.rinsed.co/contact_forms/1129?iframe=true | 1710277312 | 1.1465530890193E+14 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431490603_1194048281759124_6958000209644309342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GZMdrmh-XPwQ7kNvgHhEicI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAe68rokf-26TVvGqjcLT3PISdNvjM5wLeLcs9rG_6GQQ&oe=66714FFA | person_profile | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431180391_963407744630388_7627149427553678652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RsVPN0QaRD8Q7kNvgEBPUaR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlwMlZUDOex_OS09qwWdWvIfvEx_NgCTC9l9OXs8Syww&oe=66716684 | 0 | 3 | We are OPEN! Enjoy our washes plus always FREE amenities with every wash! Sign up for a ✨FREE✨ car wash & be the first to know about offers, updates, & more. Don't miss out—stay in the know at #WhiteWaterExpress! | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 26379 | https://facebook.com/Whitewaterexpresscarwash | 0 | GET_PROMOTIONS | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878605 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/9/25, 6:35 AM | 1718324571 | 1749468936 | 991 | 1010481417257368 | 1 | 4.1786984455344E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208224034630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255831 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448348796_1381457552481892_2746640823109626086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4p-pr258A3oQ7kNvgGX5gHs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBnj3umbRv8FJX68Ex_1shuOeomEkzmSGBMVT73hgyu2Q&oe=66714AB6 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448066466_768116122145296_8560534680954057019_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=acXthg9H3jUQ7kNvgHYnUej&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCINvo4NgwoLFHRXKwzE6c9QCsyDvrSbVT0E3WhPt9woQ&oe=66717130 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877735 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 12/22/24, 2:18 PM | 1718324462 | 1734898721 | 991 | 435591232731351 | 2 | 3.4343185901975E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114071638271220 | 0 | Mane Strong | 120210850530700443 | shop.thesuperiormane.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Bald Spots - 50% OFF! | https://shop.thesuperiormane.com/ras-a | 1718252438 | 1.1407163827122E+14 | Mane Strong | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448323131_1504859346814364_6607060534447360493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cLoY_2ognMcQ7kNvgEe2WA6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB5mW8iX1BTCpfGCyNhDHPUoYmRxpYkx54oYI1mXhU3Tg&oe=66714D17 | person_profile | 0 | Mane | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448335790_1493708098235045_4531131182391066588_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S1l-RRCWAkkQ7kNvgE0aacB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzzu8ujDSXA0WYplvC9tjTPvzEjGLawU2w2CA7wkjGJA&oe=66714847 | 0 | 3 | "Even at 50, my charm was undeniable, but my hair? It needed a miracle. Then Mane's Root Activator Shampoo changed all that! Now, I'm mesmerizing women with my thicker, more luxurious mane. It's like my hair has its own fan club! Thanks to Mane, I'm not just turning heads; I'm getting dates." Luke F., Verified Buyer ✅<br /> <br /> Get 50% OFF today only, no code required. Click [Shop Now] to get yours today! 👇 | Mane Strong | 5204 | https://facebook.com/manestronger | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878466 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 9/13/24, 6:56 AM | 1718324568 | 1726228613 | 991 | 412825071750495 | 2 | 7.0207272533696E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180209010571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076324 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448071665_319123554464868_3813683793384674157_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ryRncixR6ykQ7kNvgEMM417&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCIFF9lcGV4TJE86MJqm3Bi1U3dSfjRQmTmxT6bgC-pzg&oe=667159C8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448040115_979148013714135_5996668296641292054_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3hyE0ZOZ16EQ7kNvgEuuzQ7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAU5yQ8VsUtVWal4XM_Z_R8IU1FegtFIE3jpoF9nXy8DQ&oe=667179F7 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878539 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/29/24, 8:47 PM | 1718324569 | 1735505225 | 991 | 792323239673253 | 1 | 1.5434080699268E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974730100255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085793 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448223804_869029171701138_1027568365821906866_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PmBF7nJxXmYQ7kNvgGxu-JW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBUmvyFQCgzuXI8pVPhFhI__KBQpEFD6ox-aIsvU16iXQ&oe=66715997 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448073262_1383443922294180_3351735234627114567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xFz4GBjcj3gQ7kNvgEYkgMl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAsiKafQcw1IXW8CCqgYsMtQvXgWU-s617sPHzdO6cisQ&oe=66715BE2 | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878430 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333783 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878432 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333783 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878433 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333783 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878452 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 5/17/25, 10:33 PM | 1718324567 | 1747539220 | 991 | 352922440847938 | 1 | 4.4758399455287E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511473010227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079149 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448163374_1367998037216095_2295986089445175568_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BqiBgng1LPsQ7kNvgFewFB6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDBPfL-p_luAVJTRWCrHqaAu8gk94u8Fjir8mcFcIZ2aw&oe=66717023 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448250457_318060531346794_2074464267496227138_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FfXB3YA_zhEQ7kNvgGfzAPZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCyFaA0wtqciAM-exOnckLWobqU5WpiUduKF7wfZdzvIw&oe=66715DBC | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878437 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333783 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878473 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333783 | 991 | 427415066825999 | 1 | 9.7281572763394E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974618190255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085685 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448097211_1007053077606742_4296797722484130242_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=huKqarptn-0Q7kNvgEf6otw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDI77hpQxq6xRjeTImAi6bLQX2IiUeEa3xffQFbyOsYtA&oe=66714C51 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448020115_456496917068746_4073235809555240678_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z26s0akq5MIQ7kNvgErWeNz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAULgsoL-xX_Mn5ArEs62J5Enbc7D1Khyn1u-7oC1yssA&oe=6671582F | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878502 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333784 | 991 | 481351464273976 | 2 | 3.7689666539344E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234680540109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897696 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447684895_511546791306957_6080366087049728573_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hle0TARhwwEQ7kNvgFoL_MM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBs1dgq7HL9UYkGN-Af_vwWEWRZlQpPotsE5Gm86ZUC2g&oe=66716931 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447728389_3693905907539628_2995069847840275497_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2mxQfgLH_3IQ7kNvgFcVj81&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCZzI9169UdW_JY6YxCcJz9xFpRZu62OY_oVcEN5kYMOA&oe=66717A46 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878513 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333784 | 991 | 492899669740975 | 3 | 1.0256491422248E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266569980109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075988 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448057393_8622407011107354_7211170625090126951_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nXyScOAGQ0QQ7kNvgEXLUaQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCk54CPst748EWDN1M6pfT_r3wVl7Ih-4dQGb4L-Wagyg&oe=6671474C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448127642_1927698451022273_2007166984810529165_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WdmhiSkHAZkQ7kNvgFLMBAE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBKwxfak0A1jlji7Sw-06qzOXO9w-GNYFzoPXmhXMzkxg&oe=66715E45 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878514 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333784 | 991 | 503364322121076 | 2 | 4.293689766122E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180040740571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076074 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448058432_435906429226275_769385321508235219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JtFinycyZOwQ7kNvgFjC6hH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC9U6eoCOdfohHMIPkAEGPCPzr7iXVrMe-meamyd4t90Q&oe=66714375 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448042594_782625867317785_4550210381255299860_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZP2jb3BO77kQ7kNvgGbGJpK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjFCB8ZsLIjQZgCg_l7VGS47vS0FPPd6AMq0Vmh8hm_A&oe=6671478C | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878521 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333784 | 991 | 745864960804865 | 2 | 9.5632402628613E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234663540109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897632 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448061477_292803033911936_1677558419258993639_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ELX6vHHAjUMQ7kNvgHow-ED&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAu3Ve_kdQmbUSlT-UQnGwT7VPcxy6KzM-Dy-Sl8L4SXQ&oe=66717169 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448091673_1534703003780435_1617237340906852632_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qAxGXbuXYMUQ7kNvgF40Vvn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCev7oO23oBB9IPeOvFVpMPr0xDuAdlKPPs9MtceN_gsw&oe=667149E1 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878524 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333784 | 991 | 765550939120472 | 1 | 3.6503340552821E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179992130571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076018 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448241877_800184085601929_169102910824500115_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EXOpWeSnA48Q7kNvgEuv6C1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBzRZGSdeYYwWp_u6X2sHHIjYOAdCqxnQIY5D64urlh2Q&oe=667156E3 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448136427_459277893364252_6571128741993382868_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uHg5cHQocBoQ7kNvgFnXX6n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD3m9cX0qszbYVxoT-E2CFsI4-oavlyR7tmiuMa-8RFhA&oe=66714B40 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878527 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333784 | 991 | 775151094600696 | 2 | 1.1255094853804E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511505830227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079196 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447972026_767162962131158_419195219300559698_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1KKzmtiuewQ7kNvgEkT3WR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBELzjxh2prFGoFaFqujYZw3IyEV8qhrcMRRxStX32JIA&oe=66717697 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448046182_481525807667828_8324717735987870247_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KnJ8iT9tSAAQ7kNvgFTbS3W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDb9UUcOwHbq2R8ITgrga5dyIxRIbvvFVGaWvqXY5iDtw&oe=6671455C | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878384 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333784 | 991 | 832148851589007 | 3 | 1.1313700980691E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999698490151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772307 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444228332_820183622983367_3959792456232632851_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2gYO69fuQEsQ7kNvgFlDky5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB1OHwMKg1WKG3Qt0-7dCbq8g-CZo6by5tjSZH0cnZgGQ&oe=667162BC | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447899218_1194443505331725_6199399133887949592_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DE4vTdW-fMQQ7kNvgFdD1WB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzdOw-QvjThbFa7xuAjmw31h6RF9mOs3PTbxG3oxpOJA&oe=66715123 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT1AurfGZyfpjswoetGK3hkiwCaQJ4dBeL3GE8VUz6o67VeqtETX-47ospcJDDQIlL8iRZFhGwa4WGzRlGmYMoPZiTm3DCPyQexYxxpbp-pd4tkhY9qpyq0JXZA0q9sAxmVJDloL6XrV0A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878622 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333784 | 991 | 1156863748685783 | 2 | 3.9571913613659E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180207060571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076332 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448131288_502102752150491_654268265724987958_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ncrKTURqYvUQ7kNvgFVUlqb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBjZcRxrageTeSXALdxywIIxvEYzAurI2lLxDB7zxch-w&oe=66714D5D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448015825_1202973400702238_3303386772382892084_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4JH0o_tB4xAQ7kNvgG6pOCm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD1DD8mXZkT541gFLoyC9sW2F4uvcZR5WBS4FuX__8VzQ&oe=66716E8C | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878580 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333784 | 991 | 976518977486272 | 3 | 7.8708069349646E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911877940331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079170 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447664347_1163311241580341_7887370887570638088_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=q1TDxFVlifsQ7kNvgEafyOD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDQv80cnjy7fs-m9P3R47QB4XUJS__O6hlVQwhwi_X-UQ&oe=667153F9 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448218962_1570538293515102_4624800544614567392_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MlngReNbby8Q7kNvgGjFMnu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBqwpqBLJ0rxnFByX0JBNGVv5LYh_6a2yP05h69BkPPAQ&oe=66715C41 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878568 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333785 | 991 | 884741466747050 | 3 | 1.1657381046109E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511728070227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079644 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447670460_968184118339099_8904353629347100846_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1_ZxAzCXuM0Q7kNvgG3mxwo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDZjUZ9kojPhwZj84o0vN1eB9HyH4GuJhHQcggRQ7bXGg&oe=66714F5E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448067277_384999814574745_1890922890650400281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ka3Cv3-nBYsQ7kNvgFkHhau&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCyZVhoYeFdnqRUq6QD6VljIV0qRG92l1dP1LXwXpumMA&oe=6671655D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877819 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333785 | 991 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgGT72EL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPBISBa2anH94iMxljO0Hjcrm09CudHXGmPaUeM94Zwg&oe=6671595D | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ff698nohMA0Q7kNvgHQkash&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPYI6TUjKCW2gez-nTpSyOiio4atmMyY1Y5MjtxC_V0Q&oe=66716C4F | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877782 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333785 | 991 | 1104888433966601 | 1 | 1.1887011754868E+15 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205440052510685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/adjustable-squat-blocks | 1711385055 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433950848_942866697552715_8955147792521200862_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vt0UkUQl9OwQ7kNvgFzzLjU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDteJLOzmoKUkAR4m9JOXQ2Wa5VyVHMNybLthVGe3XL5g&oe=66715D0C | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431546912_735054122076905_4168958330943610824_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0N-xkXf9UhYQ7kNvgGAo1C7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaDhmfmZ7JgcBKHEXwdPndxyD-1lZOr70miUP6NhX9nA&oe=667158C6 | 0 | 3 | Raise the bar on your squats and deadlifts with the Adjustable Squat Block – custom stability for peak performance! 🏋️♂️ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877826 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324466 | 1723333785 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877827 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324466 | 1723333785 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877828 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324466 | 1723333785 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877833 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324467 | 1723333786 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877839 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333786 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877846 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324469 | 1723333787 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877958 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333787 | 991 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgGWraiE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB6b1ipvF4_xSDXTi3ZFyOcBWLSYuPHaa2b9TKwpeAoDQ&oe=667166FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Am4a_9PFnA0Q7kNvgGYRR06&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2MTTFKytylGX_qebskN_20HPkXvcKXRWBSp2n5YrkmA&oe=667166F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 534 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877853 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333787 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877860 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333787 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878109 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333787 | 991 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgFVtzf5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBauxdYanufU_KsDya8TvDf6kzYLeUIG9u4mRtv6oQ4eA&oe=667174C7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877884 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333787 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877885 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333787 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877911 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333788 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877942 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333788 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877945 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333788 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877949 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324477 | 1723333788 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877953 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333788 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877963 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333789 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877971 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333789 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878015 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333789 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878017 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333789 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878023 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333789 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878035 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324486 | 1723333790 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878041 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324487 | 1723333790 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878066 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324493 | 1723333790 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878080 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324496 | 1723333790 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878092 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333790 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878134 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333790 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878141 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333790 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878169 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333791 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878213 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324516 | 1723333791 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878233 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333791 | 991 | 1027739225647193 | 4 | 9.7920658359528E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 223709867501018 | 0 | CEO Dorsey | 120212553134780387 | app.thefundingplaybook.com | Learn more | NONE | video | [Free Training] Funding At 0% Interest | https://app.thefundingplaybook.com/takequestionnaire?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D | 1717618517 | 2.2370986750102E+14 | CEO Dorsey | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447523384_972250977981748_4782811025716932374_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sDM3oc41dLUQ7kNvgFxXmo0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7ZVdZJXzWornGdA9MpMhuSme8qF_54xf9xM2Id9Q_mw&oe=66717388 | person_profile | 0 | Bryan Dorsey | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447556381_828120382706120_7995311071906859520_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NOT60au0oPoQ7kNvgEkg3aU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAwh1qA5bjTjOwR_m59i3cwJdqlosh-PLfuQJ-8A9indA&oe=66714EE2 | 0 | 3 | Using OPM can suck, let’s be real…<br /> <br /> Don’t get me wrong not having to fund your own deals can be amazing but every time you bring in a partner your margin shrinks. <br /> <br /> And I get it, that can be the cost of doing business if you can’t fund your deals yourself…<br /> <br /> But what if it didn’t have to be? <br /> <br /> Believe it or not you’re only one or two steps away from getting hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding that you can use for your deals and the best part…<br /> <br /> I can show you how to get it at 0% interest…<br /> <br /> My name’s Mr. Dorsey and over the last few years I’ve helped entrepreneurs and investors just like you get over 165M in funding and I want to help you do the same.<br /> <br /> When it comes to getting funded, while it’s easier than most could imagine…<br /> <br /> There are a few very specific reasons that hold people back or cause them to get denied immediately.<br /> <br /> So I’ve put together a quick quiz you can (should only take 30 seconds) and based on what you tell me I’ll show you the number one most important thing you need to do to increase your odds of funding successfully…<br /> <br /> Click the link below, take the quiz, and start taking steps towards funding your own deals and increasing your margins!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.thefundingplaybook.com%2Ftakequestionnaire&h=AT1sW4eJYuHVAf7IV3Vlx-DgHTc9YKjHKefX0BHXp4acdJyRjLbeZRH86w2-xp8T4wC5VA7gZ4ndcTHpK3BTQIMvjZblsntlRx0I0Oav7Bj2Ebf57c9eoE90UJ9kraSVCs-LfAg8Agi9ow" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://app.thefundingplaybook.com/takequestionnaire</a><br /> <br /> I promise you the training I’ll send based on your survey will open more doors than just about anything you do this year. | CEO Dorsey | 20 | https://facebook.com/CEODorsey | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878250 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333791 | 991 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGAiP-RNrPcQ7kNvgGLxB_x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgi-Mm7fo4KJ_bz8I5XVwdFbGDjwkDzKkxsyyF15ob-w&oe=66716FA4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PMojeQcBf8wQ7kNvgGOkrBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdehINVyPfw0t7asNcaRhfdJGK1GwrNgy5LPuTQdmwNg&oe=667154EF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alert—a woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpected—Blake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. … It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take it—I have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B …" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878318 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324558 | 1723333791 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878339 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333791 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878346 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324563 | 1723333791 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878356 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333791 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877763 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333791 | 991 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgGZv4sl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYGgTif9o3-ZyGtapNxes-UgrQ5bC7xlo57GCWk6VZsw&oe=66714885 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgE9lGhx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1c83kaGCUdgRMrScZzi18NyAZwVjjN_R_lGhal1iV9w&oe=66714B69 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1544 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878486 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333793 | 991 | 440744382076110 | 1 | 1.0116180405276E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511497480227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079179 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448139555_501597275591256_7991071903704729534_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Aa2gC7GlZrwQ7kNvgHDzKtc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCncO_VGRgORyOdoqQ6ko4kx-91vVsiTWQqvWJymBIGaA&oe=66714DD4 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447794196_787339046886853_2104244757396137111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=foLE8K0DayoQ7kNvgFfbY3T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBT0D-MztCIpsgClfgVX8Le0YwCz7kqG_n396rJ-Lh6UQ&oe=66716B3E | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877746 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333795 | 991 | 424393600565983 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 104992632509232 | 0 | HeartlyLove | 120209492726170724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Solar Bug Zapper Stakes | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/solarguard%E2%84%A2-bug-zapper-ultimate-outdoor-mosquito-control | 1718170883 | 1.0499263250923E+14 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448214837_469340032141472_205310914444780150_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gr15nek7VDgQ7kNvgEV9iYe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDJAHwT-tdlTXBFsnBuJgEsI8j1SaiveZ_0hZEW-LICHQ&oe=6671426D | person_profile | 0 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448136082_345594835227306_1313177705351167647_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7qwEopF5qMwQ7kNvgGBsQyE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAwbDZ3nzEsfy6ax1KZdvI67tusC25WqvtYGsQ1UcQWMw&oe=66717198 | 0 | 3 | 🌜 Enjoy peaceful evenings in your yard with the Norvure SolarGuard™ Bug Zapper.<br /> <br /> 🦟 Advanced purple light waves attract and eliminate mosquitoes and flying insects instantly.<br /> <br /> 🔒 Dense safety net ensures safety for children and pets.<br /> <br /> 🌞 Solar-powered and eco-friendly, offering cost-effective mosquito control.<br /> <br /> 🌧️ Durable and weatherproof design for reliable performance in any outdoor setting.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | HeartlyLove | 735 | https://facebook.com/100089641703840 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877831 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324467 | 1723333796 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877845 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324469 | 1723333797 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878107 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333801 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878240 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324520 | 1723333802 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878407 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333803 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878419 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333804 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878246 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/11/24, 12:10 AM | 1718324521 | 1723335008 | 991 | 426415140236661 | 6 | 1.5328359172999E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294391023170 | 0 | Jeanna Gabellini | 6570567343729 | specials.masterpeacecoaching.com | Learn more | NONE | image | [Free Quiz] Discover Your Superpower | This Short Quiz Will Help You Attract & Retain More Clients With Less Effort And Stress Guaranteed! | https://specials.masterpeacecoaching.com/client-attraction-superpower-quiz?utm_source=Facebook+Ads+&utm_medium=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D | 1717723127 | 294391023170 | Jeanna Gabellini | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447264780_1157544762254293_8178009081718371653_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ktXT8D9OHOQQ7kNvgGeIvg7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCvSHQc-_683apG7H8TD4mQ3y96EzgMmv_kQUV_uuQaRg&oe=66716DA6 | person_profile | 0 | MASTERPEACE COACHING! | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447670824_6350953641696062_6488919148294658447_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z-Cz7IHQ3FMQ7kNvgH97xPD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYABTHA1Dxy7LJzxt105pQiwzZGO9hHxfBPyDfMN68eApw&oe=6671558C | 0 | 3 | Are You Failing To Leverage Your "Client-Attraction Superpower?" 🤨 [FREE Quiz]<br /> <br /> It's not that you don't have one... it's that you're focusing too much on doing the things that DON'T come naturally to you.<br /> <br /> Of course, it's important to grow and take on new challenges. <br /> <br /> But there's a way to leverage your natural abilities and gifts so that the "growing" part feels less like a marketing mask and more like an extension of your authentic self.<br /> <br /> And here's the kicker... THIS is what clients are actually attracted to. 😮<br /> <br /> This is why clients will side with an independent "freelance" partner, instead of working with a large and "established" firm. <br /> <br /> Because the WHO YOU ARE resonates more with them than the WHAT YOU'VE DONE!<br /> <br /> Once you understand how to UPPERCASE your natural client attraction strategy... <br /> <br /> ... hopping on sales calls, creating content, speaking on stage... It all becomes second nature, because it's really YOU!<br /> <br /> So what's your Client-Attraction Superpower? <br /> <br /> Take the QUIZ now & discover how to...<br /> <br /> ✅ Attract More 5-Star Clients <br /> <br /> Learn how to focus on the key aspects of what you do that will capture and captivate the attention (and hearts) of your perfect clients!<br /> <br /> ✅ Get Instant ‘Yeses'<br /> <br /> Break the ‘salesy’ framework that 99% of business-owners fall into and learn how to share your offer without feeling like you’re “selling”... from now on!<br /> <br /> ✅ Stop Using Marketing Strategies You Hate<br /> <br /> Tailor your marketing and follow up to ditch the strategies that make you cringe… and just do the stuff that feels natural!<br /> <br /> The quiz takes less than 3 minutes…<br /> <br /> >> DISCOVER YOUR CLIENT- ATTRACTION SUPERPOWER HERE:<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fspecials.masterpeacecoaching.com%2Fclient-attraction-superpower-quiz&h=AT3nJ_AlRs-EKYC-R6j51FHYksG4jQDKOMobQUEJjv8Uni4w4u-MlVZlnxxod0eEsc_87TwZ_XSImE0Hc6OKyoIQySu_Zv3N3PQKBfpJDpZmU8aAiAvg1Iq8owTtfKU6t2g9zHOkMu7-JA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://specials.masterpeacecoaching.com/client-attraction-superpower-quiz</a> | Jeanna Gabellini | 7351 | https://facebook.com/JeannaGabellini | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878443 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333713 | 991 | 313858118448376 | 2 | 8.6464822234797E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911767910331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079042 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447663797_956606186209303_6711527030146818784_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YL_O5F6MPgEQ7kNvgElqEB4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXI7DyGt-CUNkLFrtVdaYl0guHlTwbBGmjP5K3GnYqbA&oe=66715375 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448110232_468973259161254_1725576614531681500_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=INcMZTks9sQQ7kNvgF74R0A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5tLw7-wXxj8J-t2ZbJpB4zDiHEGmd9VebkmqRdyFh9Q&oe=66716507 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878291 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324544 | 1723333715 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878395 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333716 | 991 | 3598770690397075 | 1 | 1.3103905330103E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120206982972730427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Empower Your Journey | Start your adventure today. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1704833773 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416373515_421733833514082_4371821505210462360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yTbV55i6YpwQ7kNvgH9rA26&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBpe5iTCRJ19AM2VIo1yNI-pu8kLCJt4jAApD5MdmcP6w&oe=66716218 | person_profile | 0 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416321408_2133679590316153_2619911304869486690_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PY_ZCwbGzsQQ7kNvgH0g29v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDE3S85VtdT-FNOz6B0JGplW8jOO3xXVXgfACG7eZ4v-A&oe=667163E3 | 0 | 3 | Learn with LinkedIn learning or relax with board games. Your interests, your space – sign up for your free library card today! | Clark County Public Library | 3939 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878566 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333717 | 991 | 865478072215860 | 1 | 4.2394953707E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180089960571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076131 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204545_400595119610045_8133958215410970458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Da_0l7iBQWQQ7kNvgE1ZsFn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAQdZ_jZcLepiTmGC0MIqIUqPTPMxR22LnKGDwjNzRz_g&oe=667151EE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448206461_1208650903884345_5679224890535356513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DkZ6f5_W5XwQ7kNvgGX5ODL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCHMCC6stLBWYKbwtK7jYdLqt4XAkRcTSr6YDwOhIhPxg&oe=6671538A | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878176 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324511 | 1723333718 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878405 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333719 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878178 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324511 | 1723333719 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878179 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324511 | 1723333719 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878180 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324511 | 1723333719 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878406 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333719 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878182 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324512 | 1723333719 | 991 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878192 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324513 | 1723333720 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878194 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324513 | 1723333720 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878196 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324514 | 1723333720 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878198 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324514 | 1723333720 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878200 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324515 | 1723333720 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878202 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324515 | 1723333720 | 991 | 989757509447482 | 55 | 1.1720555042106E+15 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207623405290738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | 😹This series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714125814 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439653549_1492081098184092_2520230055688059346_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nIDqAicyGHcQ7kNvgEJoIw6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBoOW9zzjg87fNGK4kbwiq1mbHS3v0_pugkqLJ1c18z-Q&oe=6671628F | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439672237_968708498225044_5845263724250189725_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e0yyZu5bosUQ7kNvgFMeb8V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBh5nw6ZfD4TFvRQNsV_KF771bd44tVNQE6YQWrouMIA&oe=667149E8 | 0 | 3 | 😍😍After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his family’s business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginning… | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878204 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324515 | 1723333720 | 991 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878214 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878216 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878218 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878220 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878222 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878224 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878226 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878228 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878230 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878232 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333721 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878245 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324521 | 1723333722 | 991 | 1132921891311549 | 1 | 1.516661042538E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137895286077070 | 0 | FormFree | 120210318338300181 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | Your home’s an asset to your family’s future! | {{product.description}} | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formfree.passportwallet | 1718298478 | 1.3789528607707E+14 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448333962_7316782078425995_807916196007425384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7-KGwfr_a-8Q7kNvgF6ijdl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6DRgzJL790f9wByUH5_zpuASXD5YCOrg74IG8hUBK_g&oe=6671614A | person_profile | 0 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448277897_814091200827084_867931813644973329_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qi8WLVZ0qpAQ7kNvgE7ZMja&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBq9inn_hyTPJnX3F8BGwJWvhN2BzNonyIybg_k2u_xJg&oe=667154AA | 0 | 3 | Easy, fast, and secure. Download the PassportWallet® app, connect your deposit account data, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! | Easy, fast, and secure! Download the PassportWallet® app, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! Download PassportWallet® now! | FormFree | 318 | https://facebook.com/FormFree1 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878235 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324518 | 1723333722 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878239 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324520 | 1723333722 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878242 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324521 | 1723333722 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878248 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324522 | 1723333722 | 991 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGAiP-RNrPcQ7kNvgGLxB_x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgi-Mm7fo4KJ_bz8I5XVwdFbGDjwkDzKkxsyyF15ob-w&oe=66716FA4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PMojeQcBf8wQ7kNvgGOkrBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdehINVyPfw0t7asNcaRhfdJGK1GwrNgy5LPuTQdmwNg&oe=667154EF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alert—a woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpected—Blake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. … It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take it—I have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B …" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alert—a woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpected—Blake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. … It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take it—I have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B …" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878247 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324522 | 1723333723 | 991 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGAiP-RNrPcQ7kNvgGLxB_x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgi-Mm7fo4KJ_bz8I5XVwdFbGDjwkDzKkxsyyF15ob-w&oe=66716FA4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PMojeQcBf8wQ7kNvgGOkrBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdehINVyPfw0t7asNcaRhfdJGK1GwrNgy5LPuTQdmwNg&oe=667154EF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alert—a woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpected—Blake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. … It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take it—I have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B …" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878251 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333723 | 991 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGAiP-RNrPcQ7kNvgGLxB_x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDgi-Mm7fo4KJ_bz8I5XVwdFbGDjwkDzKkxsyyF15ob-w&oe=66716FA4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PMojeQcBf8wQ7kNvgGOkrBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdehINVyPfw0t7asNcaRhfdJGK1GwrNgy5LPuTQdmwNg&oe=667154EF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alert—a woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpected—Blake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. … It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take it—I have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B …" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878254 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333723 | 991 | 962018715376885 | 1 | 1.212504153492E+15 | 1711436400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896973480568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Doing the right thing：Trend fitness&yoga clothing | Zauwasportswear is committed to providing the most comfortable, high-quality, and sexy fitness leggings, sport bras, fitness suits and accessories to women worldwide. | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433838669_940144517488006_8118220534208662454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=47YwBAiEbSgQ7kNvgFtpyf0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYSLMPibpWUPgqUcXC8UMoOpqZSq4T3h82xl7WlEOqhw&oe=66715B43 | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434125334_1491213908102352_4650963139539483336_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xRrfSKt-yy4Q7kNvgG5f5e8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCVXsB-qSNOKp2FVQR0pBQtkT7REpVLmdnfhE_iC2zp2w&oe=6671661E | 0 | 3 | Zasusportswear | 1825 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878252 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333723 | 991 | 384575984389499 | 1 | 9.3611511482572E+14 | 1711263600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896974210568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale💗 | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434169469_716800173953008_5982729189800300726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ib-5ZCWEsP8Q7kNvgFHjpFT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB79Y0Yy_nX5sLp0dnl-i-TGXeowzPyAvvB0LXcvncO9A&oe=667154D1 | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434109479_989695059434643_2847750671227500194_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QKQHufs9yzMQ7kNvgETMGQH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCWhqpv5DMOieQi5zmlItikVQ_CaUmXvq9ZwglrNYBU_A&oe=667160BC | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1825 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878256 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324524 | 1723333723 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878257 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324524 | 1723333723 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878259 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324525 | 1723333723 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878260 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324525 | 1723333723 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878263 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324526 | 1723333724 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878268 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324528 | 1723333724 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878270 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324529 | 1723333724 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878272 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324530 | 1723333724 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878275 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333724 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878276 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333724 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878278 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333724 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878279 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333724 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878280 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333724 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878363 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333724 | 991 | 2175154789519506 | 1 | 1.8946279076311E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557763159848 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/we-the-free-why-yes-tee/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&utm_term={{placement}}&utm_kxconfid=vx6rprtuq | 1718303300 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448109434_818931029827675_3884145197669457001_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6LdLn88DFMYQ7kNvgHJox_B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCoQmtdVcx4khp8AuYgSeFDIAddm9noCN6PugpVDZpSzA&oe=66714638 | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228774_1549201248975693_6813590457842842337_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6zgLZxuuz1UQ7kNvgGHKqoX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAauKjY8EXX91vegU-iLDycGbVTgYOKFCv6uZujZsNa9w&oe=66716B73 | 0 | 3 | It's time to step into something new. Shop Free People. | Free People | 1740861 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878282 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333725 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878283 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333725 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878284 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333725 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878370 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333725 | 991 | 1086529679437962 | 1 | 4.205586438356E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120205967718520334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Transform Your Space With Precision | Landscaping experts. | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/ | 1705564904 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420190041_346766758283651_4311395696293819188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XTnzWcXbqy0Q7kNvgFSyNvl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCI-_xll273kj6Ki_fQ-3otRX3d_41EYncKfQ2lfTPO4Q&oe=667174EB | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420181046_920308233008002_3085060648356899485_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WUooGUpqQbgQ7kNvgH9O-Tr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDDFM_M2MVuvirj9e6lZL-Uq6UAgsV-lqEE1GmQsMxPGA&oe=66716C48 | 0 | 3 | Landscaping experts. | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 534 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1707897600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878286 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324536 | 1723333725 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878287 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324538 | 1723333725 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878288 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324539 | 1723333725 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878371 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333726 | 991 | 1731041867389958 | 1 | 7.4230558116422E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120207253884530427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | More Than Books, A Learning Hub | Explore, connect, and thrive. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1705555169 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420519683_412590647765775_4772161014193238243_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nJwwZ07tnekQ7kNvgGhcj0z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCQbTj0k9OUz3_Y9eTwsQHKZt1yRvpR8I0XfoFkZVpbWQ&oe=66714AF3 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of a wide range of resources, opportunities to learn new languages and a welcoming environment. | Clark County Public Library | 3939 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1706601600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878290 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324543 | 1723333726 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878292 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324546 | 1723333726 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878372 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333726 | 991 | 1743723312807882 | 1 | 1.3199004653399E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120207253776240427 | www.ccplohio.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Enrich Your Journey Beyond Books | Ignite your knowledge. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1705554481 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420097207_912538046777862_1082205696628937572_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WJpovwVPV8Q7kNvgHwCrvm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzX-gYx6ooht173grOTDZx1RG-fbo0gMKJafriKWqy9Q&oe=66715CA5 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | From captivating children's programs to versatile meeting spaces, curated articles, and language learning opportunities. | Clark County Public Library | 3939 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1706601600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878294 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324549 | 1723333726 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878295 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324549 | 1723333726 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878379 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333727 | 991 | 1441203646820898 | 1 | 1.9359639300808E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 187975618373022 | 0 | Neri Law Group | 120204895964950704 | nerilawgroup.com | Contact us | NONE | video | Free Case Evaluation | "When it's personal to you, it's personal to me." | https://nerilawgroup.com/ | 1704861452 | 1.8797561837302E+14 | Neri Law Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418858329_910028994085381_2186405683408696968_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T3LMOvI_Z6cQ7kNvgFpH3mG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCR5inqO9iJAbTBLOWOKxUKv8_uhkQS2V7Te816XgBljA&oe=66716E0A | person_profile | 0 | NeriLawGroup | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418864666_897719851849881_1015388614198300006_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8tsqomVrNgAQ7kNvgEVLvH_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB4vdYFj4uE8EhoJm6W7lxCee1M7SSbhTHth0FVTuP4lg&oe=667151EF | 0 | 3 | YOUR PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY | Neri Law Group | 296 | https://facebook.com/NeriLawGroup | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704787200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878298 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333727 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878299 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333727 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878300 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333727 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878380 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333727 | 991 | 1482171445986633 | 2 | 5.8361023646335E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103634589701656 | 0 | Senior Care Plus | 120206974108150181 | www.seniorcareplus.com | Sign up | NONE | video | ABC's of Medicare | https://www.seniorcareplus.com/resources/events/abcs-of-medicare/ | 1709843126 | 1.0363458970166E+14 | Senior Care Plus | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428712461_434814105893366_5308462981640258484_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Dljbo14vg4Q7kNvgHH0uy8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAkzUtmvKHD50mSrSqY6IzRrT9F7zv8iugG423x33Q0ew&oe=66715072 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Are you looking to learn more about Medicare? Join our experts for our next seminar session to learn about Medicare. | Senior Care Plus | 473 | https://facebook.com/SeniorCarePlusNV | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878302 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333727 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878304 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333727 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878306 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333727 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878308 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333728 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878310 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333728 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878312 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324553 | 1723333728 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878374 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333729 | 991 | 1231837204848570 | 1 | 4.4314837866349E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 184546378248086 | 0 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | 6593462539540 | learn.goodguyscontracting.com | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Free Quote Within 24 Hours | http://www.goodguyscontracting.com/ | 1718031416 | 1.8454637824809E+14 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448018991_7668389939915003_5115888738860964365_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RRwJz3mz1IUQ7kNvgHIGN5v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjrawcBBwKhSQXeLzaYLR-hm4EmX-zPDTt5MJW7Qb-7w&oe=66717159 | person_profile | 0 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448017290_981115470375807_5496708855715560003_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=thEYrSOeDkgQ7kNvgGPjO6h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMIGwm8Ulv8EwFCMQZtFgI5FTuqrybev4ORPLbsF35Ww&oe=6671794C | 0 | 3 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | 666 | https://facebook.com/GoodGuysContracting | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878378 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333729 | 991 | 914854536834871 | 1 | 1.4271340282126E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 149010831809532 | 0 | Foote Bros Carpet One | 120203493962290143 | footebroscarpetone.com | Contact us | NONE | image | Request Your Free Estimate Today | Are you ready for NEW FLOORING? Find flooring to give you that perfect look to upgrade your home! Let Foote Bros. Carpet One Floor & Home help you restyle your space. | https://www.footebroscarpetone.com/ | 1704862024 | 1.4901083180953E+14 | Foote Bros Carpet One | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417743634_938228457635357_7301204475501859853_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xONQvlJsWFEQ7kNvgGEMjhq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCis0QYr3KRpO5RDa9khT2ulm3B-vWjBB81z6TX06uQHQ&oe=6671596E | person_profile | 0 | Foote Bros Carpet One | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417826087_919608022885837_5953442466137926036_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N4BK_q5qz6gQ7kNvgEGtcX7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBj5naor7YS-ncTpGkhe33Sbyiduq-qPkkykbT7hih-og&oe=6671737F | 0 | 3 | Create a new look with spectacular flooring deals to decorate your Hall, Living Areas and More. Now is the time to shop our newly designed showroom for the perfect floor that you have been waiting for. Stop by our showroom or Request a free estimate now! | Foote Bros Carpet One | 286 | https://facebook.com/footebros.gadsden | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878389 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333729 | 991 | 377831315286892 | 2 | 3.7214446880738E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117228291694042 | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 120210412406470502 | education.ohio.gov | Learn more | NONE | image | Kids eat FREE! | Healthy meals for summer. | https://education.ohio.gov/KidsEat | 1717691245 | 1.1722829169404E+14 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447685080_1887579708412253_3065817593668297830_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FuJPJTXuaioQ7kNvgEnM-h0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDu95VEAdFpk1rgKwwhcPeoVZZlWj3-cXzQrjxVDqcf7w&oe=6671693D | person_profile | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447796713_824972893026794_4372573153212349835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4uhy7PahwQQ7kNvgFQXPyJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAyGOo-9D7b1b5Xgn5fnD8QcujVlc-f2XcmzdzEXQWe0g&oe=66716E3A | 0 | 3 | Find no-cost summer meals in your area for children under 18. Tap for locations and times. | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 32619 | https://facebook.com/OHEducation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878396 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333729 | 991 | 331315639844125 | 1 | 1.8078531963773E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 442379426574092 | 0 | Glam+Glo Medical Aesthetics Lounge | 120211571018850454 | theglamandglo.com | Book now | NONE | image | Save On SPF ☀️ | Glam + Glo Medical Aesthetics Lounge offers non-surgical anti-aging treatments, medical grade skincare & high-end injectable services in the comfort of our office, or at a salon or spa near you. Lead injector Ashley McShurley specializes in lip augmentation & enhancement, facial contouring, botox &.... | https://theglamandglo.com/ | 1717524297 | 4.4237942657409E+14 | Glam+Glo Medical Aesthetics Lounge | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447277777_2476732562513890_891209292872257122_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2DYb2xcjeo0Q7kNvgFO2YoE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAJolyjDR0vfBxsfAuVkIVfBYEw2wZ3qLZZbjqGx4jIMA&oe=6671502B | person_profile | 0 | Glam + Glo Medical Aesthetics | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447395601_493423093032023_2491398706206694268_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bvwnZFwxuCcQ7kNvgFak5oT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCqGAwlZDd6KnpwdYwVUjAuoofGBiQ6qSle0jbBJRTAtA&oe=66715430 | 0 | 3 | FREE dermaplane with the purchase of a facial and 15% OFF all SPF products ($70 Savings)! Call 850.640.9927 or click below to book now! | Glam+Glo Medical Aesthetics Lounge | 794 | https://facebook.com/glam.glo.aesthetics | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878397 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333730 | 991 | 7546919218725857 | 1 | 4.1794273417797E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 127570917876099 | 0 | Pet Door Products | 120212261271700020 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | video | Free Pet Door Estimate | http://fb.me/ | 1717193687 | 1.275709178761E+14 | Pet Door Products | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447246256_379943015089075_6121876561429764073_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1-vHfp-KsM8Q7kNvgH7PJvY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_OR-0f0xXPjaKNaOBnttaFw1cnGXSRJopIHy7G8GPCA&oe=667167FD | person_profile | 0 | Pet Door Products | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447220427_2434448716755613_9221405741359827957_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F5z_jNGEp1YQ7kNvgH67kEd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCITgrUnG5RqXRdlBCssR956orfejd31UZ7L3930gfcTQ&oe=66716A83 | 0 | 3 | We're offering FREE estimates for your perfect pet door installation. Transform your pet's lifestyle, starting right from your sliding glass door. 🚪 Act now, your pet's next adventure awaits! #PetFreedom #PetDoorProducts 🐶🐱 | Pet Door Products | 762 | https://facebook.com/PetDoorProducts | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878398 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333730 | 991 | 414400138169224 | 1 | 4.8578581079989E+14 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 257904027414753 | 0 | Vicki Belo - Vibrant Glamour | 120210704534800496 | belobeauty.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 50% OFF - LIMITED TIME | https://belobeauty.com/vgf | 1717082598 | 2.5790402741475E+14 | Vicki Belo - Vibrant Glamour | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445355276_372834532457620_1983331826728258255_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yfZjglbIQTEQ7kNvgEX1fPl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUZhx_MoO4kBr44xAl242Y8aBzkhd5NvmC1t1FClKRsg&oe=66716138 | person_profile | 0 | Vicki Belo - Vibrant Glamour | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445234943_870955471733438_5992052694811244131_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BMWtbV79gVAQ7kNvgFor72v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD7HbJ8PnzLIJvSCWWeSbl1zaxJGwICc14e2mZRPC7ugg&oe=667168FD | 0 | 3 | Tanggalin ang melasma, kalupitan, mga wrinkles sa bahay sa mababang gastos<br /> 🔥 Binago namin ang kagandahan ng buhay ng libu-libo. I-revolutionize natin ang sa iyo.<br /> 👉Vibrant Glamour Retinol Cream & Serum Genuine ❤️ Safe - Effective - Clean Melasma - Brightening Skin.<br /> 👉Vibrant Glamour Retinol Cream & Serum 100% Genuine 100% Natural Herbal Extract<br /> 💗 Set ng 2 Retinol Cream at Retinol Serum para tumulong sa natural na pagpaputi ng balat.<br /> ✔️ Tanggalin ang pekas<br /> ✔️Anti-wrinkle anti-aging<br /> ✔️ Pahigpitin ang mga pores:<br /> ✔️ Malinis ang acne<br /> ✔️ Pagbutihin ang sigla ng balat<br /> 🛵 Libreng shipping at delivery fee ️<br /> 💌Hayaan akong mag-ulat ng PROMOTION | Vicki Belo - Vibrant Glamour | 204 | https://facebook.com/61558101065944 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878408 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333730 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878410 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333730 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878412 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333730 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878416 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333731 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878418 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878420 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878422 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878428 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 800645708449071 | 1 | 1.534578380812E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 206936512502643 | 0 | Storynest.ai | 120208640080000192 | storynest.ai | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Build engaging stories with ease. | 👉 | https://storynest.ai/ | 1717075158 | 2.0693651250264E+14 | Storynest.ai | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446951784_736845618411771_819862033412380130_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nc3ENs3GFQQQ7kNvgE_Q5nB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAZYPPrByW6TQcs3jhXN6fcSPAMX0l5PtHyNYZMOf_4Rg&oe=66715917 | person_profile | 0 | Storynest.ai | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185232_310685228760524_188128712740043287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8XS2yK9Hl5UQ7kNvgHmTQqO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJya83O5z2i9trGX0OEnS5l_D4tP2MmzbvYEecej2wGg&oe=66714F37 | 0 | 3 | 👉 | Storynest.ai | 32 | https://facebook.com/61555527654867 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878425 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 1186836512468561 | 1 | 7.7269522501764E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 379008545465041 | 0 | 3D Mats USA | 120209223738220711 | 3dmatsusa.com | Order now | NONE | image | 🎉 Father's Day Deals! 🎉 | Don't miss out on this limited-time offer. | https://3dmats.info/3ySgXGE | 1717580199 | 3.7900854546504E+14 | 3D Mats USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447634705_1401436487178390_4462020154113939648_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hNn1LEz4zIEQ7kNvgFawbA1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0jBN8--Ulr4_oWqW7swgbOOSDqXo36ESfV11dGnV9eg&oe=66715C9C | person_profile | 0 | 3D Mats USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447638213_820103713388719_3329385565283942570_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8Xpg2TMDyFMQ7kNvgEx1Iey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXqhI7g8CXHDm5_r9dnav5ROfhQjbN1rqtU_wxFgn9DA&oe=6671765C | 0 | 3 | Celebrate the special man in your life with our special Father's Day offer! From 6/3 till 6/17, get a FREE 3D Absorbent Towel with every purchase. Plus, earn DOUBLE POINTS on all orders!<br /> <br /> #easycleaning #CarMats #Maxpider #carmats #floorliner #EasyMaintenance #3DMats #UniqueStyle #UpgradeYourRide #DrivingInStyle #fathersday #fatherdaygift | 3D Mats USA | 2128 | https://facebook.com/3DMatsUSA | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878434 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878435 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878436 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878438 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333731 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878439 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333732 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878440 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333732 | 991 | 339086815875858 | 59 | 4.6879632903733E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120209175374110108 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | 😹This series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1718100411 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448170807_480485151086268_243141253772231602_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fdRlXFHWzVkQ7kNvgHEF_AS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYSsRbMvMXQILPoYi8H1yJ-uBrOyptySqYn0EQCONiFw&oe=667156CD | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448096584_2366705486848629_5372967068929265346_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rw3LSk9VXGoQ7kNvgFAYxgS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCngw7IA6uFAm-rR0YU-bk6tG45Q9LQGbta9EW0C9-Dfg&oe=667169A8 | 0 | 3 | 😍😍After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his family’s business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginning… | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878444 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333732 | 991 | 316870714800447 | 3 | 7.6468901916354E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267126770109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076607 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448173078_430037673217007_4353241092601236631_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3gqmxmgSS48Q7kNvgFbaMUR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCKocNHNaTv8qhoE0zktyuR20wVUZTzvfVCjuf5FJdEng&oe=667149E5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448072322_3706004332949401_9145209265895809164_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NXxeYCO61_UQ7kNvgGVahL1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCuUhaAidykXNH0Ej2-NBfIR1884UsvuchO-GgHvVA4hA&oe=66714378 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878446 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333732 | 991 | 317584831292700 | 2 | 8.0808945794853E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267134590109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076610 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448126122_1868817846874908_8856024858815322867_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CxNVHz7ZXwAQ7kNvgGhJWbM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCUzm3ALAFReI1cRJ7r5cM6CEL91WF8puf1gUwRDErSyA&oe=66717A3D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448248067_429266926699535_690426824337991060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1yIWz3XERmAQ7kNvgFQIqXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOPxVf_QS3zndZRn1QwKohpM2o99LC6Je89A9SUMHgnA&oe=66717683 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878463 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333732 | 991 | 382612020914663 | 2 | 3.8573182392055E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209058960680041 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | La série complète est encore plus impressionnante que le clip.❤ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12591410-fb-y5-0606-fr-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=971283734563799&jump=1 | 1717830482 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448004047_3628490430705881_6334383572135742606_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXKPGnTR4AEQ7kNvgE5LtCM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCADz2BE4oJXADGH8cQ3u-liyhTLEUz6s5uRSxm142bTA&oe=66714A0E | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448059707_423984103773459_671355337987479135_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L65PjDu1obsQ7kNvgFhlt90&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDCLVPqtImnQmJfmXwEvj6pvw27NASamBcgDL1tErJCXA&oe=66717010 | 0 | 3 | « Notre contrat de couple de 5ans a expiré, donc je suis libre de sortir avec un autre homme ? » | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878465 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333732 | 991 | 395247996181966 | 4 | 4.3534130600188E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911873040331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079163 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447985684_1215420429816955_5246059459836646219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nNzh1-2xh-8Q7kNvgE3jhqk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzWcvCBBsIUDD5RD1Z9vuJLcR1B_NND8mKdM3L8e3JYQ&oe=66715E8D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447867158_444330131644440_3458441492966358915_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NN3aMdX7lvAQ7kNvgGP1f3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB2VJF4VKnSYnEdc5lTR8VYFTeB6NmRIXgQS9Z8LVte0A&oe=66715BAE | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878464 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333732 | 991 | 383024124768609 | 2 | 3.5577756717716E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146873640571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897646 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448019723_896189165609658_3344941569734321562_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=904FRK1dH-QQ7kNvgEdhukN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAoMdMnyi5iT1UV7jdIHPn5UcxO5n8EW4BCQYZUg5vf7Q&oe=667165E0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447786456_1210251673486610_7925287794679428609_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-F74IkoHdUQ7kNvgGkgmgA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDTJJFykOIYkUh9ExsQYklMkf0YYN3LpImAygFaeZ9vNA&oe=66717395 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878471 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333733 | 991 | 424307603833290 | 1 | 1.0407618873822E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146732380571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897231 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448059719_1118384809276626_2122071966271685697_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RC__rsV-WeIQ7kNvgGZwf0I&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAzIZOJtaw3pl8NsbDnpDe4LWkH8WQ8rgPW6IFPGUOkEw&oe=667162C5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448120214_926006106203220_8273581994530541527_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h0SjWQLPotUQ7kNvgGplT6J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCYrghPMSCeIsfw0hM8ALl9AufA7n1aXCDl6YgbVT3D1w&oe=667168E5 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878484 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333733 | 991 | 439398622372153 | 1 | 1.2859121527946E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208224054520571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255848 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448302757_798516252255064_2089331240098692300_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iUMBWBVOQcsQ7kNvgFXUfzB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyOiZnhIlLfIDSDabzrMhZQ7LLk0iv18hGyrLJCF8iGQ&oe=66716182 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/392781213_1005436517828698_1454996958274502906_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KSijuCbzhHIQ7kNvgEurRKO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAufZPHtlEECYdyUeMlshbawBT9pU5OUF3awuSh3goKOw&oe=66716C17 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878483 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333733 | 991 | 438661068873439 | 2 | 3.7392110030255E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234645780109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897563 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447757213_1147149429950800_2546130416094351516_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zOm-3mERCPEQ7kNvgEc1lDA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAkqTg1ST1TNmZJPT58dAocDbMd5KI-OErgaQBor7Ha7w&oe=667172BB | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447901052_768238328840682_1185380458189086010_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gTJhjtTckmcQ7kNvgFqcItg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2OR2PscwPZMfBqyenzehsON0Wub6CZkeW9nr8rFWVmA&oe=66714F24 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878485 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333733 | 991 | 439771635662155 | 1 | 9.9100237253863E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974701800255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085777 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448207416_925587252653519_6821732919550728270_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JKzNFD-kNV4Q7kNvgHXxVHt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBrjZgAC0AVaQQ0sYRuJPXv1j22d4i9f4huPTbVBuCO7A&oe=66714B8E | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448086466_1420631875999196_191492304917634292_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r4vtJN3uci8Q7kNvgFjO5u1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA3spFxuphoQCn9wWnZW0tyi0cLEy1k02-c6_kOIo4qng&oe=66714CBB | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878498 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333734 | 991 | 477252074778030 | 3 | 1.5370797405576E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911816920331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079062 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448198328_1518920445693798_68875168750439763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Dq_w0F7S8bQQ7kNvgFe5iYh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBIttfvzG8_cGWOK8W1_CqhdysUhmF19CSXu31SWb84IQ&oe=66716AF8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448175362_1182068642807086_4409674331359486398_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tWE3eYSb_iYQ7kNvgEMZgNk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYADqfX-M9O1yNhsJufd02QehD3vM_IHLYmWo-mUFb3x8w&oe=667148B6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878504 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333734 | 991 | 484199490694934 | 2 | 9.735266975974E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179873610571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075890 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448095616_990162515939264_3532638060085812503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5LFf6O_4uWoQ7kNvgF9gN2z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJCJhsdT3q0b67eDDV1fuQeYMzXHWAsgFbNPgKgGKVxA&oe=66716DE8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448056218_851330336818196_7511014430498053297_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N8FcmPsmOvQQ7kNvgFh8-xl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBEZt0YplB63nUOPjlrOJifayG9rG_DEzvN1CPMCAuNaw&oe=6671680B | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878505 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333734 | 991 | 484353140605094 | 6 | 3.4207299537907E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223898880571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255704 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448335798_1000392374918826_3633081223798894340_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=coWzSZ9rU94Q7kNvgGZWJmM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD6OqYz9BmOy7LOJU2ubh61p_Q5-g8E7CNkna8kAn1H5A&oe=66716D1C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448334717_485886127349645_7948176256130857365_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FMkfvgp5tUYQ7kNvgE0fojd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCcI8Jno6OzXxOftSjhveb9YEX8l9PtNcDdCTXN5-OeOw&oe=66715AE0 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878511 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333734 | 991 | 491676846622579 | 1 | 1.128419191606E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223910240571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255722 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448322934_2127893717581356_7255200584691932240_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RbaOh-koEMQQ7kNvgFzGMjM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDACfe9UYKAacyQeApDx36s_vdj6U1jDgVk0yNo2KZq7g&oe=66714E93 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448276514_4093590087539050_3987808895675145842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pjf-XpMG64Q7kNvgEuA6du&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDCox0x0aZ5wa-3eap9gTvjyhCNOpB-Xe-TeaRn_aOjWQ&oe=66717AD2 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878515 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333734 | 991 | 513812974553162 | 1 | 8.6138999923672E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209058969730041 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | La série complète est encore plus impressionnante que le clip.❤ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12591410-fb-y5-0606-fr-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=971283734563799&jump=1 | 1717830535 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447966193_1527997781472966_3336100303776781692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hxEPQSSPrUsQ7kNvgESHcJM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD9XHc4IkSEBMAbpnSp2OKkpDMtwUQuON8YEDnzIqTUFg&oe=667143C5 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447243585_3665527477047713_1816130848772066610_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_TeStbJNE5UQ7kNvgEgZ9ES&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDIVDiRJQGroPpL0N2n6Tw0kPSITl4fylAMmgMWwCuQ0w&oe=667168CA | 0 | 3 | « Notre contrat de couple de 5ans a expiré, donc je suis libre de sortir avec un autre homme ? » | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878518 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333734 | 991 | 526465529708725 | 2 | 1.2929667616623E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266422140109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075802 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447963970_954042849835731_3551513466768943651_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fDPSQ4PfnTwQ7kNvgGlCPhg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBeoAQxW4l_vxFC5QcNvRctM9yNOxOYR6vyI7GS7eGXuA&oe=66714B6A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210481_1642416446512089_8030248630952574227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B293hHANbioQ7kNvgFGnVu7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCp6UDmrhCpoYxF0DhVrnwOvOIyPDmpnCleHFPSenoViA&oe=66715808 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878522 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 748371997218752 | 2 | 4.8164973100685E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179986630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076006 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448179203_3852854958324040_3187347326388210665_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xBDIXNSbYrgQ7kNvgFUeP9S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArVkKCa9wEPwbcFiRbKeD3SaCjSuV8vk36feKQfMTUWg&oe=6671726E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200284_1558547381372688_4594201879073831790_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W2zEyMfFXwEQ7kNvgHO6er_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBxxVrjxSqpLjGRctz2LOdGwC03Xfm4fngKaKwgxBXnVA&oe=66717025 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878530 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 778289631157438 | 1 | 5.270551729814E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209998703180255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718167180 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448136082_1452198432074187_2992156734484633164_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qkdbTxC4gDoQ7kNvgEKSiF7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHXp7ELA-8s9V9SpGaxK3vBUFdM7Teimq8gYxLZxIrKw&oe=66716446 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448135927_7684320501685082_6054609923894084873_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYfT8f6u8BkQ7kNvgHbhYCy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCRiULoyymm3J70xY-mMFuCvazGilq1xTJMOB0J2FGb-A&oe=6671453E | 0 | 3 | ¡Para vengarme de la pareja infiel de mi prometida, me convertí en la esposa de su tío! | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878528 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 775336604588829 | 1 | 3.9785517991839E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511685290227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079544 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448259994_1541862213062218_6019277972418150412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R4O6ZmEpCvwQ7kNvgE1Bngw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBo7GsoF-HGT2AezKn1lGDkiTJJINlRjfAPRCaHUPdOSQ&oe=66716A7D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448100764_454310777240775_4899628264692935895_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9ebhi2UuZKkQ7kNvgHPXE5V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTQRNHvX59Lq5v92K26mQp0-fpXcDR04ph1vkSQX7TVQ&oe=667147B1 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878535 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 785448337033931 | 1 | 3.6861572983245E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511462230227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079139 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448019509_1251663866200881_570324633129665738_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qp3y16B6QXAQ7kNvgGd85bo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBK87lvopFkcspdvn-Rb5A5MC-YbDwHUcPEa-Ru3F2Nlw&oe=66716F47 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447786506_1505663486731509_4927395518228492838_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4BdOdwOeREQ7kNvgFN4IQt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBerBGEsumT3d6mBdxRPow6KN5zOLDS-szEa4c9QodooA&oe=66717561 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878540 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 795167762714738 | 2 | 4.482854946135E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911842280331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079114 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210446_482861954090971_4976303032480698987_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SqsZBaDiiq0Q7kNvgHHVm-v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAj-6PNnoRHHrJ5EnDXlu46vNcX7r-2RYx_0Dzb09jAaA&oe=66715D8D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448088790_445894904822971_6866305171107670622_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eSdL1uxmvMUQ7kNvgFfz2kw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD3OTnS1ts5vUiFn9_w5FuRGVen3i8l3BlltvlVqTOgOg&oe=66714AD1 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878537 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 790184076218796 | 6 | 4.2257563734498E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266415360109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075783 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448184315_1589194881941670_2556963835555570603_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7U-RbDBIP6kQ7kNvgHQS-no&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBE2Dh8fy6x7_TUy5HdatREIJgHSQ-D7Ok8ODC-L5Q32g&oe=66715066 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448083795_784603680471334_5466803078990400203_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrGgRkpieusQ7kNvgGHl2Ye&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYApPTn7gu0GqmR8GmFG9r70fIAffYLkaG1zZ5XJLTZW9A&oe=667170F6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878543 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 807463418013837 | 1 | 8.242123458757E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146894190571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897699 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447888932_480467061180461_8684914869850341531_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MKtvM2s8P5AQ7kNvgHjdAx7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDf2cpb2LUYj-X1ax75BMhRUzvbW4GZJ6OyGkz0UQfg7A&oe=66714FB9 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447893727_1107618276983609_893375242070273881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QDSeTrTzVm4Q7kNvgGdOS2q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA-fKxX2jBldkldRdKacHjw1YcryB-pBkLUkuiY6g1ncA&oe=66716A5F | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878542 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333735 | 991 | 803452941495213 | 3 | 7.5301771537598E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911881980331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079187 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447994981_428408383439225_6877783025545844115_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kNpvipL8O38Q7kNvgG0aOHL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDYU93tNt5BGyOOl4PXrvxUor3NCPWV7569qIHETba1A&oe=66716283 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448047730_1541158023468020_3607892656379174048_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LkkX0kbamWEQ7kNvgFQbNWR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAEU3qe0oiAQjabIi4OTMiEZv_1yZ68tylWWKe8g8EHRg&oe=6671530B | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878546 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333736 | 991 | 817450916994607 | 1 | 1.1936458849831E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120208912828930331 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=243380358820866&jump=1 | 1718084800 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448162753_3813011418935619_2402195389215058958_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DDwObEnzM24Q7kNvgEbfBxb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDMPzGK2RFK4Ox3m5rq5KX9zXTX16XaqNGsJ5QRV0OyXQ&oe=667154C4 | person_profile | 0 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448254060_843458587653509_3998192486676711511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nm7u-iZ0sewQ7kNvgH5uB4Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDEjTVypgIVXGxP13kI1Fgz-TWAhjjOXQ6kwDpm4AAfow&oe=66716F31 | 0 | 3 | Episodios de 1 minuto, tramas inverosímiles y nuevos episodios que se actualizan diariamente. Haga clic abajo para ver la serie completa. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878557 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333736 | 991 | 833014855001676 | 3 | 1.2128875300826E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180070690571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076104 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447971020_395387626837848_8524492541912900552_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tnupHJdKBLoQ7kNvgEfLrZp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_nUmXm7nTtPdauVCJi9-uvaplxJOv2465SUTnhYS80w&oe=6671607C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448219515_473843888507579_5813577123615312054_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Xyo7MOS446kQ7kNvgGhwAMQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB_QMa5KNONSXKyK5osS6xvWvZ0bOUboBuOa1tyoZTs7g&oe=66715600 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878556 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333736 | 991 | 832809394850107 | 2 | 1.1237314621946E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266489840109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075880 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447793793_1147237259659837_7915141888364493530_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=20BztSBItK8Q7kNvgGclV9K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVPGEVnmhePA38J7dzLfJbd2etPZtgEOUT9oC5I_H72Q&oe=6671492D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447901854_975435874236196_5014055739637399777_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V5ffC59zG0Q7kNvgEEQ3Pu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMbX4IbWx_6XQrthzol_vwZXRskB5wgRdOqlJ2Bj9jQA&oe=66716F2C | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878564 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333736 | 991 | 862888149205220 | 3 | 4.2403353711721E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180151730571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076203 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447903680_7789236614489433_2931166781493841568_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ijXwiyBVhk4Q7kNvgEUMZN5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6OhVpspSAGdT_l08h0AXqkrQvZ_zPwJv9SHJRDQObMw&oe=66714478 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448111955_7791762127570314_7152874149610618471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CJtGII8nbIgQ7kNvgHNZy1O&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB4RjEVewo9dzOY14bS9xEAbxTnoDznrgQLOGawxMr0qw&oe=667147CC | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878570 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333736 | 991 | 933983261838336 | 2 | 9.7990095040294E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180205750571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076324 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448202830_748603290528408_2301702056718559639_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7xOZf993mmEQ7kNvgFlVh-h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBBuHjOIzH1G-q1_6U27ZsLTcyABcBYukjDhyZNj_Av8w&oe=66716B19 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448129070_1199152458107127_3051142211162342572_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=928PQY88_eUQ7kNvgEm6-Mx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCiwTOkGB52ltkIRQJF9bL6qTssIxW297-VrrzrT9G87Q&oe=66714D81 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878572 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333736 | 991 | 941548784414492 | 1 | 7.7210231879745E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146737450571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897230 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447667473_442363615097905_753127301824738571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nUnnUvn25XcQ7kNvgHTP61L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC8Ri8Dwf65qpg-5rgRMIo2zC-xZPL6l4Ml6xZj98vo2g&oe=66717947 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447968621_858478819428570_2339020022255826156_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6cqrJJnx8YcQ7kNvgF65HEU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPha-lnW3_aS929BIchj4sU-1qbQ3sDFJfQ9kGt-y0Ug&oe=66714ED0 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878574 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333737 | 991 | 954566256216285 | 1 | 1.175792893557E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180215670571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076369 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448083066_734494011989196_3987933498838136922_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I0sZybocyf4Q7kNvgGbciu5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVwafITIL-gCsO3cLj1iFIEKTIhCyshAkkF_6gRkUDuA&oe=667155CB | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448269442_1110140340044860_6468026477990302901_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oFWgG4zcY2wQ7kNvgEpTa_l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuYc-743lutwt_FjV0QT_GirbqxVo51atYhZ6p169zQA&oe=66715899 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878579 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333737 | 991 | 976239663816835 | 2 | 3.8008207840027E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146850000571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897582 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447895066_1144750723513437_137276782041862318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HNt-QYquI0wQ7kNvgFm0n3F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA3ttg3yKITWAbDKTCUl2DM1mJWe6J21yCecEjnVZPp1g&oe=667153FD | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447301887_508629191490335_7043579678505134295_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4tsueglxF-cQ7kNvgFGdhZv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCcEed-CIcoXUBkZ_pwm2rcuOu85A48uQL5ZX-7dscW0w&oe=6671624C | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878586 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333737 | 991 | 985827123090111 | 2 | 4.3608518586737E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911826360331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079086 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448093138_423071507233997_6856265574737041026_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d1HplCPZpYIQ7kNvgG9sTRA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYSa7Mm_oYaCD9dWPFhN9FJKdsu_dLEoGViHxR6gMbtQ&oe=667156B2 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448227604_785699360344876_8176316973800675921_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DGCrrpJl6L4Q7kNvgF_naGy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBu4bizE_1pYl2pzVKdjwxki7DLVeeuSVWPgeryaFW5-g&oe=6671785F | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878594 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333737 | 991 | 989299502832001 | 1 | 8.0290827193783E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266010080109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn More | NONE | dco | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075188 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448230247_839793808003318_6007639495240503049_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tUeNH4gGHBAQ7kNvgEPNxOe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBiuwke_KJk7UI_rrkoX6hiKof2pWo47sCJcYtbBCXzow&oe=66714739 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447822696_422773000724260_5981171645027901992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WCH0rIiqchQQ7kNvgGcu7kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5KnlbyQGl4p7Z3D0N5U4IzpxlAXHcYaShhDdtzqUv0g&oe=667146D4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878604 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333737 | 991 | 1001778714246511 | 2 | 9.0549190801609E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266511830109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075910 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447657786_952995743241391_984851221260070462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xn0UBv1uSA8Q7kNvgG3WZoU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbQrni_KgRvWD6b-vSxfmp2BynsVBgnFW97mgGGJ2P0Q&oe=66716801 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448050786_421578770717124_8616344191960221106_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ndSwZQfSCvgQ7kNvgENIo94&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCghD-7RKq1VNZA2omIg6hd1ji4r8cc0omzBuMgBvSEzg&oe=66714E03 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878608 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333737 | 991 | 1022475835967594 | 2 | 2.0528384451711E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146786630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897328 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447291827_1386065382064620_2684243929178717392_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gO-KvLDYczEQ7kNvgHG5z-S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApiNxO1Yn7eJe3-Tet4jhZnoJbs7zuV1vGT5l4ByRQEw&oe=66716836 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447496149_430300939782415_1172815625831513955_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JfUAEnWWhpkQ7kNvgHCBxlk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAY7tmVBPJmjAuo2JdQR98RqG-Gno3Auzws59acvx9Xbw&oe=667166B2 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878620 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333738 | 991 | 1146254006493237 | 1 | 7.8131414064916E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974633020255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085701 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447970391_3705558863021266_465337338102122184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wMzp-xyfkBoQ7kNvgFycTW_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAMUhechx5T7MEUukJk89eh4AkxzHLm2u49s_TymyGSPQ&oe=667169F0 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448142533_1518533095402615_740924566615407037_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ksPwkVgkoegQ7kNvgEOOTGd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD--PQtI6ElJpCARt4rxcDEk8mdy5s_sO_B5-B3vXI4DQ&oe=66715B04 | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878618 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333738 | 991 | 1133037547970524 | 1 | 8.6444496216099E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267119180109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076601 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448018482_471869725492858_4713511505306664539_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b0afc5uy_JoQ7kNvgHRuz1_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCiR4bYjc1VNuKsjlB6Z1417QUFJ4kDg-CdukQDqZj0sA&oe=6671671B | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448159308_333614299771806_4686941826348033177_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9kKq1oQLv_kQ7kNvgF0vX2N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDBfbGi8rpXcr5YEh-6qpbY62d_qmnmT4A7Lxd3C-PFXg&oe=66716CE4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878617 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333738 | 991 | 1132651627843135 | 1 | 8.0254482850868E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146745140571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897262 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447897964_831475898868809_4186892394151125598_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4olzZZ71GA0Q7kNvgF-V9xD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIDAPbiQZPe8pBY9s6PcbRxLrXIMC05AtYB0RUkfLrdA&oe=66715FE6 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448077268_872884931274280_3663788996881402079_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4evN9mmEigUQ7kNvgHsJ5L_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB0UJiOTUrqPYT4mgGjlQyfiy00JCg2FohDowHV9BToLA&oe=667143BD | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878623 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333738 | 991 | 1157713448646116 | 2 | 1.1868328859644E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511677680227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079520 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448275234_806743158093049_6695368595309504526_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQEJ_0vzqmMQ7kNvgFU5Qu8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC36uEOLgC2_TmhbRcV8ZTpvsJl326bUySL7SpN8jsU4Q&oe=667171D0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448043943_1115933086174980_906102748843749189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0nFgUaZxISMQ7kNvgHholg4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCxO4vKuJ0Zmd6HNQrdCDuRZ7VBf--0eIFtGWZtb-rwlA&oe=66714522 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878627 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333738 | 991 | 1189847015347644 | 3 | 4.1062440096075E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179801570571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075820 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448109452_327853503694564_7535513146983982854_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6730_JyNVaYQ7kNvgE5yOoZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAriI92NHpQLZVLOW33tqNuKPD93zE3NbVOXv00CAc_CQ&oe=667162C5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448074931_449273007848697_6414479282985875754_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=moyYVYkhtwEQ7kNvgGdMQkG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAt30k7siBMeSEdpAPp1MlO49qZlTYdP2lVau5pWp6MVQ&oe=66714BEA | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878544 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333738 | 991 | 809987571059641 | 2 | 3.7114185724645E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180169910571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076237 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448166019_3717485175141136_8564871231044195273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BBr8RXZX-ikQ7kNvgHob0x5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBCxbM-8qthpJJ9Cjo2pGz5Bl2Nm9WWrdUsmDYKlJXo7A&oe=66714D5E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447664347_993073519148736_8826703198047373270_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_nEa7azFny8Q7kNvgEPEcDI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCgg_e3ZCHl1yuSwq8wbE5wsECa6h6N2xAZDOUltQhlAg&oe=667149BA | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878503 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333738 | 991 | 481556307592267 | 3 | 1.1569007021789E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911756300331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079030 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448150492_339830962545432_863163416785431639_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-WbDUedH2A4Q7kNvgHvC5ki&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6bLmqqw2ojFm19HHU_sU__3Nmh3cpgFRcAPSMVtu6fw&oe=667162DB | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448240750_398081482580985_6148556035256675540_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J5tPbROi-uAQ7kNvgHndqLX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBzzxFi_Ihivb3Q5ynczMljm7O75milkYgmdrJX9c2k1A&oe=66715E29 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878575 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333739 | 991 | 964717925123525 | 3 | 9.9673619150397E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179766170571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075795 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447870120_438046965606917_1364897018330364174_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kl2TzvRRCgoQ7kNvgHosRN5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDl6VOZHLrtM0Ry3UJ4IrC3OcA2W1g2kPyukzzyAAs-_g&oe=66716CA2 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448159203_454183830694314_6403777406675419083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xJg2cHD25XwQ7kNvgFJMNeh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiPVSL2T4YqXG8Nv6PIcornMu5rxxDxrtTezQIm-B2xA&oe=6671729D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878600 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333739 | 991 | 991400545760101 | 1 | 8.3015479519235E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974736680255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085806 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448085196_1190280419078222_3160944382140218344_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rsRALiTmaDcQ7kNvgEAlV6L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCj-J4goGhIdd_4z8n8bdtA95yfETk2jS7AasIJRsXKcA&oe=66715DD1 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448190679_991962305627910_1288812248805923822_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VTID64b4ksAQ7kNvgH7BY49&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCEniOj13BUDNEv1ztBcz2MGCLRokVc2g8c_TOb1A8Ybg&oe=66716A9D | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878563 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333739 | 991 | 851315740145325 | 1 | 3.4680184184970E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511528940227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079234 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448243216_490249460098042_3601360578154387346_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PDaYS9XoExYQ7kNvgEud5kU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCp5zCaIJA-xlYY5AifsFbTGfilsAwO9KGNFc-S5naMQg&oe=667159CE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200780_450268684455904_3259209322208530333_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WlLVOhcGGTcQ7kNvgENih0F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCWCmhvyUz41yhmkXfijNT8DOAJPrTiSmQkBf8iZTNXIw&oe=66714B36 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878525 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333739 | 991 | 769559075165996 | 2 | 1.6923584182364E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267048740109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076505 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448110229_1521050852176387_5062024104050282382_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e5PrWWfjgaEQ7kNvgEaUgMA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCENOeN5rpia7W1xVfIZoqwpQx-Ms3j3sqcQdUG4fB9FA&oe=6671580E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448211184_429828843232536_7171093232167007881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lvdCeA89xswQ7kNvgFvMfQv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC9pedhjxkh1WIk7vn-7dWGEkU2Df17ovnJJwNi30TJMA&oe=667166BA | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878456 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333739 | 991 | 359397716793306 | 2 | 4.7871669794797E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146772810571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897306 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448124840_1205063253814819_7006499255104405914_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XtYtJXHrDUcQ7kNvgEU-bdw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBU7sJQ0-tq18lT_m-EELDKfT51DkwEPnc9NmwPS3tV8Q&oe=66715735 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448028630_1823820134796996_3890575683336031499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5538vtSz4bkQ7kNvgGjOS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCMFONnXeb4CMwI15QxmfC3OKT6GovFx4GzxHszQ7eu_A&oe=667152FD | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878628 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333739 | 991 | 1230755841420332 | 3 | 1.184479646308E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179892870571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075898 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204782_473213348419486_784380979559127745_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WUq-fPFd8BgQ7kNvgEGp0i3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCNKLzs2Vf2y1AyIxyBgR0z02sF7mqS_PQQ--f3NLc2TA&oe=66716048 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448086201_1165489518128356_3490931458844543917_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s1eLCnyjMhUQ7kNvgGLcv4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDtEwaqFNs-XgdzCcrSqziqV-ZnfMD1i-8iQLvrpoEy8A&oe=667177D0 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878448 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333739 | 991 | 326681433817907 | 3 | 1.1309955848267E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179865300571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075874 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448210754_1499397063990803_4023411261733118917_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a_PFmGOWMs4Q7kNvgGg4fzP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6a4BFapejTjXE12OiriIvPLoBMZUcdzzgqjt3Idi6hQ&oe=6671578C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448096468_1005833787794464_7916476956595487733_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vKaXAoSIAiwQ7kNvgHZWX1u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBmawCexfn0uqnbwmz1-Al-Fog7QNzJw5cRw2WQC9soSg&oe=66716BDC | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878573 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333740 | 991 | 945313450728514 | 2 | 3.7544207348361E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223950630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255766 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448399465_314749245031218_5259302949073578056_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pFBOlsQQ76QQ7kNvgH8p-x6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDIVscNfMXU4APJO_-c06Y1CeaPWCq3Xst8BtHgck9YPQ&oe=66714C2C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448273578_1711974169538769_6343351351987392379_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7SdWjvoc_q4Q7kNvgGOWu6F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAnb_5SvA7imz60ZxJF7ymGojv5iERj7nklFjxh5NfMpw&oe=66717187 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878472 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333740 | 991 | 424368883753863 | 1 | 1.1923940484428E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511480050227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079158 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448268555_750786073798531_2102355964212654842_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDCGemE2OfsQ7kNvgFJcClw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDvi7-q9LvWhXn0G3TkqMbvS8jXXG2YFZpE1mfwRWAFGg&oe=6671717B | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448223648_1814219305712350_4118395658615716657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AIsUfaX9IwwQ7kNvgEgLMxu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCyeUXBjg-RP8x90-AN3PSuT5eFkrlVe9fWzTCPv8ib_A&oe=667155C5 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878493 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333740 | 991 | 468535375770537 | 3 | 7.6315515269139E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179910330571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075909 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448205839_755005993507346_4304208931377107323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7bMWsPsZLxYQ7kNvgG2Odtz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPBJi-9QQBrVF5b04_htc2FEjDZH9HckbNwpS0LjXABQ&oe=66716EB3 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448086135_1457923354930274_8655371814976548590_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XKpapFwW-NoQ7kNvgEHgTSp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC8XcC9lV0GJm1wttDmX2Ghp_7mULiElhnuP7D6eF2D6g&oe=66714D27 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878536 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:48 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333740 | 991 | 788543876677568 | 1 | 9.7956207383323E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511769510227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079748 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448183030_773882318234435_7673001486061495341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GgHWacEcHdUQ7kNvgEmPRLe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBV8nbfwjjI6iAKVbwRnEK672VnjKQ-sNBws1RFgSO36Q&oe=66716EA7 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448207049_2890349514451257_416897794165819800_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QVJMoLGXm00Q7kNvgFEIkVS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCV5_sFvzehXmVudR--IwLpuL6dkjEs4UJ3Ec4kX1tpgg&oe=667146BB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878529 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333740 | 991 | 776874901101311 | 3 | 9.806239902665E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267247820109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076767 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448201931_956182829320860_944800605795670798_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYTiUj1NC9MQ7kNvgFB85pw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDhI9ehQbZss5CIuO4cryjExWhApVeplnabl3u5x5PwUg&oe=66715459 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448206067_1139210917297963_2579835541348831183_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xKvDr-3L6gsQ7kNvgG_irFd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCa0LAMvWvS0GYwHdEmfpUjkWE98v-w74ngmOs2Fndq6A&oe=667145B9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878387 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333740 | 991 | 1228274364808242 | 1 | 4.4777400121406E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 287661555399369 | 0 | Montana Center for Implants and Dentures | 120210565276470402 | www.facebook.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Hear it from our patients... | Get a Free Second Opinion | https://www.facebook.com/montanaimplants/ | 1718224484 | 2.8766155539937E+14 | Montana Center for Implants and Dentures | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448238982_473204895259207_6255073344218909095_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5U9ADMAK_woQ7kNvgEfAFY7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDWC8Bv0-169tfA78FQBM-gklZDPYBIStWPcgMbKUhSA&oe=6671495F | person_profile | 0 | Montana Implants | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448251758_1000715275108579_7032946894848637274_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hPC9mrxZt1sQ7kNvgFYwZio&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCHToorXs96-2Zve_weeTBtM6CYUa3jtZnRXBfrz9b6A&oe=667165FF | 0 | 3 | Visit Montana's Only Board Certified Dental Implantologist! | Montana Center for Implants and Dentures | 165 | https://facebook.com/montanaimplants | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877742 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324462 | 1723333741 | 991 | 386511137765643 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120209492577330724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Stylish Mosquito Repellent Bracelet | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/norvure-mosquitoshield%E2%84%A2-bracelet | 1718170094 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448268081_433145392839342_4041026355839548094_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-cuvmvRbfZcQ7kNvgF9tmVo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAG-8bPPjCo7_0cc_mvR_L2FbZiHud_eUjGGFP1FQyv-Q&oe=6671562B | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448268397_780359293908873_4509353322040619801_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y0uOESXbPjQQ7kNvgHvNR3k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDSfInTY1nq07JmDyHsT_SdcCw6Nm3Jv7Z4s0RMMNyKOw&oe=667161A2 | 0 | 3 | 🦟 Tired of pesky mosquito bites ruining your outdoor fun?<br /> <br /> 🌿 Meet the Norvure MosquitoShield™ Bracelet – a stylish, natural solution for mosquito protection!<br /> <br /> 👨👩👧👦 Perfect for all ages, ensuring your family stays safe and bite-free.<br /> <br /> ♻️ Eco-friendly and DEET-free, packed with essential oils like mint and citronella.<br /> <br /> ⌚ Enjoy 720 hours of protection with each replaceable core.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | HappyMe's | 4240 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877750 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333741 | 991 | 477942217919342 | 5 | 7.9330905624098E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120208390565450724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Let Your Pup Roam Safely With This Tie Out Stake | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/tanglefree%E2%84%A2-360-swivel-dog-tie-out-stake | 1715049493 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410296_320816604184579_4382935421732099458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfmYweEuQm0Q7kNvgHSrTE0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCyqfjnXRYEGCZ9Viyum-t8KB0PiyurrGPKZUUIvoRuXQ&oe=66715C3C | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118318_3775657095983445_6022554941443760618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8Yjwc2BRHcYQ7kNvgHeaIBR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCjhAIJ-Z-C5TehbZPQ9wZbjDl1EVM4Hmcc01ncPDFQxA&oe=667149D2 | 0 | 3 | 🐾 Give your furry friend the freedom to explore without tangles! TangleFree™ 360° Swivel Dog Tie-Out Stake ensures your pet's safety and your peace of mind during outdoor playtime.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight | HappyMe's | 4240 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877759 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333742 | 991 | 1146411586573606 | 1 | 1.5921364747001E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557763991848 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/we-the-free-westwood-hi-low-shorts/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&utm_term={{placement}}&utm_kxconfid=vx6rprtuq | 1718304220 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448107571_1180081749670299_6722357545596774779_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZcYHzRBDExMQ7kNvgEKN2Ye&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5GIQFmHuvJBJBRKQcKTeODGH3t4DuyXSmkVu11zTl5g&oe=66715D7B | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448129129_828914298733198_2171558781616718288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rNrLrvG5LDIQ7kNvgHud16S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1vbClBdocrIWJ84AIz5_QXPYuNEYZU2jCQVPNswZjBg&oe=667177A2 | 0 | 3 | Untraditionally classic, heritage-inspired staples. Shop We the Free at Free People. | Free People | 1743504 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877794 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333743 | 991 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHnrCMm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVnW_3--FUVBnnHLAMqLwESVl-SN9Y58hZldiZ5XZGmQ&oe=66714B46 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgGqVhSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmMG67TGKOq_kQwC3M3Y3yKM_WduciZMjCawVI1JQ8Zg&oe=66716661 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877797 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333743 | 991 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHnrCMm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVnW_3--FUVBnnHLAMqLwESVl-SN9Y58hZldiZ5XZGmQ&oe=66714B46 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgGqVhSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmMG67TGKOq_kQwC3M3Y3yKM_WduciZMjCawVI1JQ8Zg&oe=66716661 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877802 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333743 | 991 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgGK7AHI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIx9Wi8UjOnylY_N5PdKZP7P47YJTXE-bmu7w-jvcJSg&oe=66714E5A | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgENXv4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD7OjWWC1iajBfDvxw5zdSAb1YJTom719I8C7lqgVFQPQ&oe=66716A71 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 11 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877804 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333743 | 991 | 2252174438468494 | 1 | 9.7454560764655E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114588168402434 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 120210892106860312 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Alexis C Matos | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/fxR2an/16324 | 1717937505 | 1.1458816840243E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448179303_971859801154177_6327712607769919734_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vU0kQI0m9d0Q7kNvgHflWhV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqlz_LGWBmLQE5t5VhKC8Q0QOxcuV_tkAdW8fsp3vzng&oe=667174D2 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448089806_1151117749431398_6156727910436943369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qoVs09f-5j0Q7kNvgGNuRSe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCEnuBVDNGDGYVUpOhWs2xhOAzKiYqCMKa1V_ZB1PaU7w&oe=6671657E | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 19125! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 20 | https://facebook.com/spherebuilderphl | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877807 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333743 | 991 | 464860922861805 | 1 | 9.9282116889382E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112529452120441 | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | 120208804444970262 | valhallatahoe.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Endless Fun | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | https://www.valhallatahoe.com/events?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_Arts_and_Entertainment&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4776544-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1717537001 | 1.1252945212044E+14 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447788387_973058027552655_9209561098459223618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7p2S5rdxmQIQ7kNvgHzzhfO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDF0PH1TD-cDvU0hyHYa5TyIM5zhcLon1X5hunRUu7UZg&oe=66714C95 | person_profile | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446898337_492000286584096_6117367585715937578_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu6mCDOZ-o0Q7kNvgEMYUPV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRlt9zZnU6xVZZ1pufWkdGp9ShfyLRGIdkie9BXk_cug&oe=66715534 | 0 | 3 | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | Valhalla Tahoe | 6939 | https://facebook.com/ValhallaTahoe | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877824 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324465 | 1723333743 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877825 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324466 | 1723333744 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877955 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333744 | 991 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgGWraiE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB6b1ipvF4_xSDXTi3ZFyOcBWLSYuPHaa2b9TKwpeAoDQ&oe=667166FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Am4a_9PFnA0Q7kNvgGYRR06&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2MTTFKytylGX_qebskN_20HPkXvcKXRWBSp2n5YrkmA&oe=667166F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 534 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877829 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324466 | 1723333744 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877830 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324467 | 1723333744 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877832 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324467 | 1723333744 | 991 | 660581109579844 | 2 | 9.314627187491E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877835 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333744 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877838 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333744 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877842 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324469 | 1723333744 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877843 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324469 | 1723333744 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878309 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333744 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878311 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324552 | 1723333744 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878314 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324554 | 1723333745 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878315 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324555 | 1723333745 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877849 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324470 | 1723333745 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877851 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877852 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877854 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877857 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877858 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877861 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877862 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333745 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877962 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333745 | 991 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-EDV_PIMzUQ7kNvgF8pRUp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6ARNJR34Uq7OlPVif2ci6Eupbmki-tM4rtwV3TL0XQw&oe=667175BB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHV4t4R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAr6a7vswgnDoLHCz_cFlSQJNWa0ACC31G3JxWaT9fgWg&oe=667163EB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877865 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877866 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877868 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878316 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324556 | 1723333746 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878317 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324557 | 1723333746 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877869 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877870 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877871 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877872 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333746 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877874 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877876 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877877 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877878 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877880 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877882 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877886 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877888 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877890 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878111 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333747 | 991 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgFVtzf5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBauxdYanufU_KsDya8TvDf6kzYLeUIG9u4mRtv6oQ4eA&oe=667174C7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877891 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333747 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877892 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333748 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877893 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333748 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877895 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877898 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877901 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877903 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877904 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878129 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333748 | 991 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOikLX3Is90Q7kNvgEZ0Nil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFQ4KCosA0loOd4qa3mDr7wLGEMtjB6KcxC0frj5_vtQ&oe=66715848 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5YaHIcawK50Q7kNvgH3X9hf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYPKKZIoToUESGZhLjbV4sUgjDsSXbbxevxF8lE4BiYA&oe=66716648 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 644 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877907 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877909 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877910 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333748 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878130 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333748 | 991 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOikLX3Is90Q7kNvgEZ0Nil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFQ4KCosA0loOd4qa3mDr7wLGEMtjB6KcxC0frj5_vtQ&oe=66715848 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5YaHIcawK50Q7kNvgH3X9hf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYPKKZIoToUESGZhLjbV4sUgjDsSXbbxevxF8lE4BiYA&oe=66716648 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 644 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877912 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877914 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877915 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877917 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877921 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877925 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877927 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877931 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877934 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877935 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877938 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877943 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333749 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877947 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324477 | 1723333749 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877965 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333749 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877967 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333750 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877969 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333750 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877973 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333750 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877987 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324481 | 1723333750 | 991 | 495065459752719 | 1 | 4.0279158608082E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877993 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324481 | 1723333750 | 991 | 865023429002636 | 1 | 8.3220935836537E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877995 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324482 | 1723333750 | 991 | 865023429002636 | 1 | 8.3220935836537E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877999 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324482 | 1723333751 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878003 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324482 | 1723333751 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878007 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333751 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878011 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333751 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878019 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333751 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878027 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333751 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878029 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324484 | 1723333752 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878031 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324484 | 1723333752 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878033 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324485 | 1723333752 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878037 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324486 | 1723333752 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878039 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324487 | 1723333752 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878043 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324488 | 1723333752 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878045 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324488 | 1723333752 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878047 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324489 | 1723333752 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878049 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324489 | 1723333752 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878051 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324490 | 1723333752 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878053 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324490 | 1723333752 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878055 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324491 | 1723333752 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878060 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324491 | 1723333752 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878062 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324492 | 1723333752 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878068 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324493 | 1723333752 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878070 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333753 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878072 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333753 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878078 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324495 | 1723333753 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878082 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324496 | 1723333753 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878084 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324497 | 1723333753 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878086 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324497 | 1723333753 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878090 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333753 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878094 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878096 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1687081411831650 | 7 | 1.0777107900007E+15 | 1714892400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207768284090738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | 😹This series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714468439 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440403555_1634058157338919_9031291769942722988_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uwwSmJ5jiGwQ7kNvgHk69v-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAIyjJ-FN1lYdU5zzC4VS3bNTidRwYX10cWRj4DIhcYNg&oe=6671699B | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440466030_2282054168654469_2910559909362688042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v7no-ZWZDRoQ7kNvgE4QHgG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCkKCcJe1cYvPjerAML0X7_nQEM2EAXHjY4yehB9FTURw&oe=6671540A | 0 | 3 | 😍😍After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his family’s business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginning… | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878099 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324499 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878104 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324501 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. 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| 1878113 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324503 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878115 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324503 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878117 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324504 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878119 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324504 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878121 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324505 | 1723333754 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878133 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878135 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878136 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324507 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878137 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324507 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878138 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324507 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878139 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324507 | 1723333755 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878143 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333755 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878144 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333756 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878146 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333756 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878148 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333756 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878149 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333756 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878153 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333756 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878161 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333756 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878173 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324510 | 1723333756 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878177 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324511 | 1723333756 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878189 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324512 | 1723333756 | 991 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878197 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324514 | 1723333757 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878199 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324514 | 1723333757 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878201 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324515 | 1723333757 | 991 | 861939552623158 | 1 | 1.8722349231897E+15 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878203 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324515 | 1723333757 | 991 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878319 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324558 | 1723333757 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878211 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324516 | 1723333757 | 991 | 1151488566099663 | 1 | 3.741970716041E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! 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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878215 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333757 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878320 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324559 | 1723333757 | 991 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c4gL6AcJ7vgQ7kNvgH7M8f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BFVNPqbWl_oiRXUPv8tA9goc7i9a8o-OQz2PON2zTQ&oe=66714810 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pxlm2mDjlB8Q7kNvgGysu1y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBF_CFqitSVxZP0n14PY0PC2_lt6LpC13QhAVEEJXPGhw&oe=667164F5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milk—the sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hour—it had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in love—Catherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessed—Wendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept together—Wendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. You—" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the house—he could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twins—don't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind again—in this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Locke…" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an act—it genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. … The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Daniel—she knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days ago—had he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Jane… are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uh… thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suit—he was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've known… It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last night… You should seriously consider it. Don't worry—I won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is it… Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendy—yet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? … Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. … Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big one—Jason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morning—what was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherine—not that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Wait—" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jason…" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Where… Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to her…" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at you—you've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at all…" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherine…" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connor… to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family together…" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa Albert—Connor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's good…" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business function—there were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brother—Connor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. … Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the past—you were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchester—that meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meant—it wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. … Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lesson—it was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did you—" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorce—to pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality – lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wine—growing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admit—" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878221 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333757 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878223 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333758 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878225 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333758 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878227 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333758 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878229 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333758 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878231 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333758 | 991 | 3652610685000724 | 1 | 1.1526254957867E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878236 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324518 | 1723333758 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878237 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324519 | 1723333758 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878241 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324520 | 1723333758 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878243 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324521 | 1723333758 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878262 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324526 | 1723333758 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878264 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324527 | 1723333758 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878265 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324527 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878267 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324528 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878269 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324529 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878271 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324529 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878273 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324530 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878277 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333759 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878281 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324531 | 1723333759 | 991 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0NDM9v6ObMQ7kNvgH1XJ6o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBsZY1SjUDpjKbhRw0A5s1qf526F43dnHmM_wYiSdWX0g&oe=66717794 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i7xRW_ogK1kQ7kNvgF3f6Gf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCrDY4LSMP_pe6N4S9p1N6m-MfUy1dfDoeD1TlrwVjXAw&oe=66714595 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked him—a lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878285 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324534 | 1723333759 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878289 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324541 | 1723333759 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878296 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878301 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333759 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878303 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333760 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878477 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333760 | 991 | 7882828991738951 | 1 | 1.0436592040186E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137895286077070 | 0 | FormFree | 120210318336960181 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | A dream home for you and the one you love! | {{product.description}} | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formfree.passportwallet | 1718298555 | 1.3789528607707E+14 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448169942_433325539501099_6944452449807734176_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_cXDwV1hKssQ7kNvgE0lOvd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAvhI5lmsLLVwUUOqUFKA3jOD7fvhu9J9NH8SAwiH4bFA&oe=66715648 | person_profile | 0 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448263663_1858560824568252_4441540486321369533_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YTuWm4aQwWgQ7kNvgEc1W5w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCjMTHIg_3MniiHWwTOdeQ1SfBytDsYt0akIlqC8weqig&oe=66715488 | 0 | 3 | Easy, fast, and secure. Download the PassportWallet® app, connect your deposit account data, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! Download PassportWallet® now! | FormFree | 318 | https://facebook.com/FormFree1 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878587 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333760 | 991 | 987110269289899 | 1 | 4.3135286979166E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223884140571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255703 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445595660_1160249141768751_1347595362872656005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FQHIOO1BmicQ7kNvgF16J1W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDO_6PPkNxjm7iLvPwrS8uzA0AY-QaHEsWy2lC-DFG8qg&oe=66714C9D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448273696_1598012487441598_5416261350689933165_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1bcGpqLb7QsQ7kNvgHebHt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCof-hIXaAWaKQfAbV9sM0e9nBHIxFsIDLaFogEIULFLQ&oe=66716CB4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878468 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333760 | 991 | 414710467820632 | 1 | 1.475154146709E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146876230571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897666 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448167127_2501487716705385_333528900475649380_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BiXVYzvjer8Q7kNvgG-wKfJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDk_lx_QOlCWES-YH7_66Iop9BfDBvxCwRM26EJU7rkEA&oe=66715A99 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441910333_807592417975575_2325100667109883856_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mOzEIvR8J2cQ7kNvgHvzEYy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC9-lVAeagO4EDiJRDxZRLEr8cJw3IfhkLBAvqpvKXa5Q&oe=667144AF | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878487 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333760 | 991 | 441757532116841 | 1 | 2.0780358992494E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511764480227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079724 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448160255_496748586008650_3351126120829842198_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J_YQDRZ0mFwQ7kNvgG8iE7S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBHI2katVDZMExTc76Kv_PEjP4n3eGTwnq4a7DGV68BZA&oe=66714F7C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448019761_1164598154868485_7135198973108743595_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zcSmJ8Q1e1QQ7kNvgEP3n6s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCGwPoGX1XNhJVYO3_6dKkMGcLDBH6UWTB_3wKLzdG1iw&oe=66714D2E | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878589 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333760 | 991 | 987300325923344 | 1 | 9.9540955554879E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223982140571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255791 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448250654_987754375924532_8045151659442655748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LckZVRVq4h4Q7kNvgF55S67&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAmsYoU4C0ch1Xvkp2J5jB3vLIChnPU5OEH4z4lpiXBSQ&oe=66715370 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448318328_1600640720786425_4233863145869754797_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zy97b58A8QwQ7kNvgGwdslV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBS4Rytw4k4ouUXq1EfIXVmGW51_vENdho1dr-biqAqTA&oe=667179BF | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878381 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333760 | 991 | 312384481929799 | 3 | 1.4877936221446E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999698370151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772290 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447893309_1013916893403866_8775064083425321630_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H0KIXdqvM9AQ7kNvgFo6xd4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDbRiXgopwU3h6b-1eXZ5EusjO291pJrn30rtAd7KNJjQ&oe=66715FA4 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447971434_1530826354495339_3068241689834158755_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LBXcwZyHGcEQ7kNvgHCkGHg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAe3KoTMN2aonASo0C_AMYGneLWMkI6C5az2-proFV8yg&oe=66716F3E | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT3mRATrvyZ5f2ZNSZFXSYXw2JC8LXuC85Yg1pSUVpVYw247ndZotqOddGWkOeR-kK3YCS_SZVw5y0OFi2T2tQBe44fgdJCUWZ8iX037hOGlgxQlZZt7otSx_JEOyvW3KhZRHkbvoEVliw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878547 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333761 | 991 | 817794913273490 | 3 | 9.5755493918491E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267221320109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076740 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448166014_859117006029362_2834059929394635950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pq5zpB61hM0Q7kNvgH1v4_w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDCTvoK8VMSKo4gTjfYDKrm7mxADvU5Aukw5V6hhiDFeA&oe=667149C8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448146381_997731471725194_178781340858874469_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M7I7bzx32pYQ7kNvgH_QRkE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCc-XwZBCig3CQ5acmvSmDIheeX9jEXVIiAlpx0e2IDzQ&oe=66715241 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878634 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333761 | 991 | 1407089000001190 | 2 | 4.508366243231E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911893200331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079241 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448051484_1482558902380070_3150817108814350564_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7OCtaCypnIwQ7kNvgEFo9fi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCUhDw8d17YUIMXFPPE1C4dtpOh8_4UdS-ol6rMtw64eg&oe=66717A5A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447733335_2319086421758586_2116960935682317667_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bD0om307S10Q7kNvgExQrr5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAy2HESfN1hBW8I_RY6RN6PLFsordxnuZ3z-WKZWXE7GQ&oe=667167C2 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878453 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333761 | 991 | 353028090824573 | 2 | 1.3840182022753E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146753540571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897275 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447773812_348456364688581_7457356108693319505_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pdZTFaUDmrwQ7kNvgEkh_rO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAUhe6ELQzL0-Ra79PNWQbCYtet6k2h-BX4AO9lNS4S4Q&oe=66716F87 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447886303_1013146040381043_1908791283249866638_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZW6xiwsHXZkQ7kNvgGIa0OT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYANyGrSI9ayphw8YWfSFgq4RNeG1dvXUCdTVbjHsmPGvA&oe=66714367 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878590 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333761 | 991 | 989299502832001 | 1 | 8.0290827193783E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266010080109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn More | NONE | dco | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075188 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448230247_839793808003318_6007639495240503049_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tUeNH4gGHBAQ7kNvgEPNxOe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBiuwke_KJk7UI_rrkoX6hiKof2pWo47sCJcYtbBCXzow&oe=66714739 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447822696_422773000724260_5981171645027901992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WCH0rIiqchQQ7kNvgGcu7kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5KnlbyQGl4p7Z3D0N5U4IzpxlAXHcYaShhDdtzqUv0g&oe=667146D4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878534 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333761 | 991 | 785228543686709 | 2 | 1.1621258116517E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266526200109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075934 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447728809_1231809567787894_3168321872975451854_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUBinf8Bml4Q7kNvgHtwc9g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbSgJ5iXPZplRTVC5GQ3DoqTgahhu3qi7Bv1ctkTiaDA&oe=667147F1 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448014355_919064073239181_775484835996690441_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AOB4EvRY4NEQ7kNvgEzxbpb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAsmOyuXay0Y-3WntQFB3D7UT9htvnXgRc0ykFWqlEFOA&oe=6671662D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877736 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324462 | 1723333761 | 991 | 821891733159235 | 1 | 1.0491259165349E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114071638271220 | 0 | Mane Strong | 120210719062090443 | thesuperiormane.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Father's Day Special: Buy 2 Get 1 FREE Gift! | Fill in thin, patchy hair with Mane’s Root Activator Shampoo. Our formula was designed by hair loss experts to promote growth with every shower. Remove buildup from your scalp and create long-term stimulation of follicles for growth. Limited offer: Get a FREE gift when you buy 2! | https://thesuperiormane.com/products/fathers-day-hair-growth-bundle | 1717570749 | 1.1407163827122E+14 | Mane Strong | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447552095_1139472360669517_4890855214516784493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4dEiqx1DzLwQ7kNvgGccCVj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCXa11jjngkk2XtPuDpeYec7QIkHjEpRW0hLybDhUC16Q&oe=667163D8 | person_profile | 0 | Mane | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447556305_1040593804165289_6365495284808933609_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yj2A-AAD9_wQ7kNvgHdm6ru&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDYLUpDYxhMV6s0TrZq8JV5PUivZ0ntmZbiXFA0XQV8eg&oe=66715027 | 0 | 3 | DADS, sick of thin, patchy hair? Reclaim your youthful hair this Father's Day with Mane's Hair Growth Bundle! 💆♂️<br /> <br /> Buy 2 and Get 1 FREE Root Activator Shampoo, proven to help you achieve thicker, healthier hair in just 4 weeks.<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on looking 10 years younger on your special day!<br /> <br /> Hurry because this deal runs for a limited time only. Shop NOW! 🎁👇 | Mane Strong | 5204 | https://facebook.com/manestronger | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878305 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333761 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878307 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324551 | 1723333761 | 991 | 305392575838829 | 3 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1716102000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120211473983910747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715918677 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477258_907723381125422_5055201934113902389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a4F_1zi1OEgQ7kNvgGHP2dB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Twu0KBTYUKumM4Ww-ktmxqfvFAOyQKSyKL2CmMgJng&oe=66714C38 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442496116_1606871263445710_5634148219212488631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uSIoPKQ8R20Q7kNvgHVuKaZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCCYB7nWgp1I4W27YbHggOyr4u_2VgPtURN3mq5D5Q4DQ&oe=6671554A | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.” I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didn’t. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.” “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.” "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in. “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.” Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.” I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.” I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.” Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophia’s POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.” Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.” The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.” Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.” I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. “Maybe it’s because of the miscarriage…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?” I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. “I want to divorce you.” CHAPTER 3 Sophia’s POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.” Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. I’m going to be free. And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.” His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.” He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.” With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.” Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!” Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now he’s out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like he’s never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophia’s POV “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!” Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!” “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.” Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.” “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart. “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.” Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history. “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?” “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—” “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!” I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.” “Oh, but you will be!” Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.” As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!” “Wait, what do you mean?” “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.” “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!” Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for more from him anymore.” “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!” I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. “She’s the reason for your breakup, isn’t she?” Troy said, looking smug. “I knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. He’s probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!” I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. “Unfaithful jerk,” Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophia’s POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.” Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!” “But…” Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?” They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.” On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the miscarriage. “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?” I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.” I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.” “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.” “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.” “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.” I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…” “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.” He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.” I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!” “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.” “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.” “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.” Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. “And then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?” He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?” “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.” I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.” Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…” My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!” He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.” I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.” “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?” “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.” Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?” His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…” Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.” CHAPTER 6 Sophia’s POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.” I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.” I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.” He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.” “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?” Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.” I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.” He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.” I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.” As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. “Hello.” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877758 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333762 | 991 | 1146411586573606 | 1 | 1.5921364747001E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 26448950205 | 0 | Free People | 6557763991848 | freepeople.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://www.freepeople.com/shop/we-the-free-westwood-hi-low-shorts/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&utm_term={{placement}}&utm_kxconfid=vx6rprtuq | 1718304220 | 26448950205 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448107571_1180081749670299_6722357545596774779_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZcYHzRBDExMQ7kNvgEKN2Ye&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD5GIQFmHuvJBJBRKQcKTeODGH3t4DuyXSmkVu11zTl5g&oe=66715D7B | person_profile | 0 | Free People | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448129129_828914298733198_2171558781616718288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rNrLrvG5LDIQ7kNvgHud16S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1vbClBdocrIWJ84AIz5_QXPYuNEYZU2jCQVPNswZjBg&oe=667177A2 | 0 | 3 | Untraditionally classic, heritage-inspired staples. Shop We the Free at Free People. | Free People | 1743504 | https://facebook.com/FreePeople | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877765 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333762 | 991 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgGZv4sl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYGgTif9o3-ZyGtapNxes-UgrQ5bC7xlo57GCWk6VZsw&oe=66714885 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgE9lGhx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1c83kaGCUdgRMrScZzi18NyAZwVjjN_R_lGhal1iV9w&oe=66714B69 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1544 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877766 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333762 | 991 | 291958790652671 | 5 | 1.1673076476229E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 106230892147834 | 0 | Wahooly | 120208392486660620 | shopwahooly.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://shopwahooly.com/products/auto-tracking-phone-holder | 1716120664 | 1.0623089214783E+14 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441550888_1499627580626532_1414101930248845522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2oGD6JIo6YUQ7kNvgFLYoF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSCWLtEsto4ay8zIhnphlwer1w7uQrEWZK_md4jTuHuA&oe=66716337 | person_profile | 0 | Wahooly | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441604688_8032235373454880_6938820003090827366_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d9ktSr-YIlQQ7kNvgEl1Nxw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgNr4EdS3N-OEg49ACkNUeaP7xEDm0sAVKoPVab4In-A&oe=6671670E | 0 | 3 | Capture perfect selfies every time with our Auto Tracking Phone Holder – stay in the frame effortlessly! 📸 | Wahooly | 65 | https://facebook.com/Wahoooly | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877772 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333763 | 991 | 394130523355596 | 8 | 4.2000040740374E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439692940685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/desktop-punching-bag | 1711384150 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433120299_795955522568787_797613211419689399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0TLYZH8cAIgQ7kNvgFSmsom&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAUIE_mHknqVLVbPXFNZgGUoKClBNWQOHT2DbrEVHWstw&oe=667178D4 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433238851_786110366774651_8097829806032811625_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JiTaKeA7gP0Q7kNvgEHENw2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDb6NPqvAcRmohkUawMtCxhYRKxu6nLtwDfUsGYyhVTnQ&oe=66716916 | 0 | 3 | Knock out stress with a swing – the Desktop Punching Bag for your daily dose of fitness and fun right at your desk! 🥊 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877773 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333763 | 991 | 395942533186562 | 6 | 1.1253808420402E+15 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205440052460685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/adjustable-squat-blocks | 1711385052 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434558423_799224488763855_375982975789020658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tBShnHSf9XQQ7kNvgGMr8Gv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBi0gX5kK_3EiiLppy223k3EjFynKp9cWl9NF8lUZgyag&oe=66716323 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433175380_757940223099853_1695113958356397612_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WFnncMCDNScQ7kNvgFgPojY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB5-kOFQAX-a_seBUN4SzC7l-p92hvTx6MEqcP9UJmGA&oe=66717070 | 0 | 3 | Raise the bar on your squats and deadlifts with the Adjustable Squat Block – custom stability for peak performance! 🏋️♂️ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877774 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333763 | 991 | 433697319024398 | 6 | 1.6550246085646E+15 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439851020685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/boxing-resistance-bands | 1711384631 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431574138_333371179735017_6865493517643319687_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m_P_yQMcc2gQ7kNvgH1fFm_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCtd2TrxVxBB_mpXDwOvuTw6etUS_EzDDrsT1G6Vgbqyw&oe=66717A3D | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434017644_1862051540904358_4679136093091877076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9v44PFLvPC8Q7kNvgGO-fqG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB6nhMOmakBSk-5rE0YZivXmB9aB_NEn1us_Nwoi_c5OA&oe=6671504C | 0 | 3 | Boost your athletic edge with Boxing Resistance Bands – train for power, strength, and agility, and be the champion you're meant to be! 💥 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877775 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333763 | 991 | 446797251111798 | 5 | 1.7556765916298E+15 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439332780685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/digital-hand-gripper | 1711383736 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433282456_1333868253967337_1113881468506284985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nIqsxJBTHZ4Q7kNvgE-_1Z_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDRkYslYiYqr2L-S3bEYySbSIHSXe8pnwrlNiKc42EFQw&oe=667173BD | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433436070_421680633846828_4591200998363717083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pCI9loOR0-gQ7kNvgHso8OI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAliyfLjMUtaAbVTfBykHv6RXMc6IFx5W8X-5eOK4RDEg&oe=6671672A | 0 | 3 | Crush your fitness goals with precision – Grab the Digital Hand Gripper for smart strength tracking at your fingertips! 💪 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877777 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333763 | 991 | 755605570118979 | 6 | 1.3956303911515E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 222894657578380 | 0 | Ortho Shoppe | 120208414657620187 | theorthoshoppe.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://theorthoshoppe.com/products/compression-knee-support | 1717861324 | 2.2289465757838E+14 | Ortho Shoppe | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447994110_406700565696023_1163528998048665032_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G3BVMiUuLksQ7kNvgHNJy2a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBlOfRiA8fyRm2l_bVrw6YBG8UR0imbUsNeFiODC2xMSw&oe=66715A83 | person_profile | 0 | TheOrthoShoppe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447833160_430875943080616_3752944757941698893_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OwUMe7gCibgQ7kNvgG2H6ny&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA-QHU-fjfuC15sZqN19wHbw-vG4-NB6Ed2KpzfNR-i6g&oe=667173CE | 0 | 3 | Push your limits and conquer your workouts with the ultimate Compression Knee Support—perfect for pain relief and joint recovery! 💪 | Ortho Shoppe | 7 | https://facebook.com/theorthoshoppes | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877778 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333764 | 991 | 782761196703175 | 5 | 3.5342400771126E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205438995860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/waist-twisting-disc | 1711382962 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433479221_420110183937191_478106752442852752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1fHUm0GEORQQ7kNvgFtFAYe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbAHnIBwhmt9cPw__B0uxGbJSS_2hEbNW409Z4g5dS3w&oe=66715ABF | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433490542_7094954960616616_7004627976478776710_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HlXJQX97Y1cQ7kNvgHN_qWV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCj1mGPLdAeaZ40MuDj1NmEuWp1cr2bp0nXPlmDqfBI7A&oe=66717242 | 0 | 3 | Spin into shape with the Waist Twisting Disc – Fun meets fitness with a twist of magnetic magic for balance and core strength! | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713423600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877779 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333764 | 991 | 793146902699782 | 6 | 1.0968745049686E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340264730685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/electric-protein-shaker | 1711116031 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432067347_1063576474745018_724497605306183776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1olXFs6xQswQ7kNvgFoCpqk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB4wWkLWm-cHylpX-NXqWrsxzzTdYCTs3DAPo2TuQl8pw&oe=66715D6C | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432063006_408226161794850_4398130670109671840_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u4fHiUXb0iIQ7kNvgE9HkDN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBWiRzalrHLv6fBD0BBqg9OR--sVx-2zq0D8fDeuHIBbg&oe=66716905 | 0 | 3 | Shake up your routine with the 650ml Electric Protein Shaker – Perfect blends on the go with auto-stirring technology! 🥤✨ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712646000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877780 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333764 | 991 | 940233510969718 | 4 | 4.299501528349E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205339917860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/breathing-trainer | 1711115126 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409159508_909907801139692_4675947778815173690_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vBSBQVVNUgQQ7kNvgEwd6rv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDlo71CakGcd8W8wNz-v8leKZQBKdtGu3SYvOIlfBrBSg&oe=66714583 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434199605_1355640305829901_533890186268236937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_MJo_KN3PyIQ7kNvgE39XRP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4wD8xq5fOrbuCowAwbka7umD9lzx_toEPrtdnAWjccg&oe=66716D2B | 0 | 3 | Boost your lungs, boost your performance! Get the portable Breathing Trainer for peak fitness. 🏋️♂️ | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877781 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333764 | 991 | 949006196933375 | 4 | 1.8474876090456E+15 | 1713682800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 112869771908331 | 0 | FurHaven | 120210839648410237 | furhaven.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://furhaven.co/products/crawling-crab-learning-toy-for-infants | 1712927784 | 1.1286977190833E+14 | FurHaven | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435172890_810174554464881_3840244123437137377_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Rcyj1QRQuGQQ7kNvgFKWs7b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhJbxNIbwfeEOtVg8rYWGE_rtn8Lq3dgisJqtBhGuZkA&oe=667147FB | person_profile | 0 | Fur Haven | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435199818_978593933935320_2431553962050734042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfZEn0M49wEQ7kNvgFZO802&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCQyI7WOU-yUWK2Q17WXfW5NcA7mrhVV4EUZuQR3cyyng&oe=667144BC | 0 | 3 | Make playtime a developmental dance with the Crawling Crab—where every giggle is a step towards growth! 🦀 | FurHaven | 43 | https://facebook.com/FurHavenn | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713510000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877785 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5i9oB4zqj3YQ7kNvgEu4T_e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKUUGPY6zBgf4RxjBuHI43hrM14Tpx9M8RmmGTWCF-vg&oe=6671468D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1I6Y9zYWZf8Q7kNvgGcmNUR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzkucwRSC_ML2yjPt_OuX2UlZUKrB78tNQEwR4k6fNRg&oe=667172F8 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877783 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1454863848475764 | 4 | 4.0207777608654E+14 | 1713250800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340382510685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/elastic-pull-rope | 1711116410 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433685284_230951176767937_5577598456174420825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=inRXbvfQhmAQ7kNvgGgr6Nq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAF2iqX5-Gv4PtxU2gjtVeZGmDNZjDcOvoylAMqGKk-ZA&oe=66715F46 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433673307_964959445189060_119075567916080744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZPe4B3HsBU8Q7kNvgEyE-aE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBGl6hgIpnQQJur2ONIUreU0LyOxxjRPermChk7Zti2g&oe=66716C9E | 0 | 3 | Unlock a full-body workout anytime, anywhere with the Elastic Pull Rope—your go-to for fitness flexibility! 💪🏠🌟 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877788 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5i9oB4zqj3YQ7kNvgEu4T_e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKUUGPY6zBgf4RxjBuHI43hrM14Tpx9M8RmmGTWCF-vg&oe=6671468D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1I6Y9zYWZf8Q7kNvgGcmNUR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzkucwRSC_ML2yjPt_OuX2UlZUKrB78tNQEwR4k6fNRg&oe=667172F8 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877790 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgGvUYRD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPlNUJJUv3LexUQ8mmgPj3w2u-uos-lZIIQ_fys-IvoA&oe=66716A8E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgFyNQdB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDtXXhNwwWRgdQfkTtqxjamd5V04Rlxu9k3dmayBoHL2g&oe=66717188 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877791 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgGvUYRD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPlNUJJUv3LexUQ8mmgPj3w2u-uos-lZIIQ_fys-IvoA&oe=66716A8E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgFyNQdB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDtXXhNwwWRgdQfkTtqxjamd5V04Rlxu9k3dmayBoHL2g&oe=66717188 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877793 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 1605179996693847 | 1 | 8.2374082252888E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211357610233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167747 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447216330_1013646530491723_6471114213187782855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kYDQIkC2fLcQ7kNvgGvUYRD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPlNUJJUv3LexUQ8mmgPj3w2u-uos-lZIIQ_fys-IvoA&oe=66716A8E | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447306763_437503968996030_3535214343164963730_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mt2i_7rPjLgQ7kNvgFyNQdB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDtXXhNwwWRgdQfkTtqxjamd5V04Rlxu9k3dmayBoHL2g&oe=66717188 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877795 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333764 | 991 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHnrCMm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVnW_3--FUVBnnHLAMqLwESVl-SN9Y58hZldiZ5XZGmQ&oe=66714B46 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgGqVhSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmMG67TGKOq_kQwC3M3Y3yKM_WduciZMjCawVI1JQ8Zg&oe=66716661 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877796 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHnrCMm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVnW_3--FUVBnnHLAMqLwESVl-SN9Y58hZldiZ5XZGmQ&oe=66714B46 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgGqVhSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmMG67TGKOq_kQwC3M3Y3yKM_WduciZMjCawVI1JQ8Zg&oe=66716661 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877798 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 2159638524434546 | 1 | 9.6143829566379E+14 | 1717484400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210212795140233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1717170198 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235329_669837955327704_2089153290860508039_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x0G8U_liIwkQ7kNvgHnrCMm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVnW_3--FUVBnnHLAMqLwESVl-SN9Y58hZldiZ5XZGmQ&oe=66714B46 | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445417710_3306161976359767_2112175207822166929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1zMxSHhsygQ7kNvgGqVhSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmMG67TGKOq_kQwC3M3Y3yKM_WduciZMjCawVI1JQ8Zg&oe=66716661 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877800 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 416526867943445 | 1 | 7.6142898584583E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 337782656077360 | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | 120212457540530592 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/Gm09h7-0524-EN-694790.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1777998279593623554 | 1716974468 | 3.3778265607736E+14 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445372749_806966594400367_8328680758778900513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6WkkU54eBlMQ7kNvgGK7AHI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIx9Wi8UjOnylY_N5PdKZP7P47YJTXE-bmu7w-jvcJSg&oe=66714E5A | person_profile | 0 | Happy Drama Catching Up | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445517830_981120310045018_357273464333431315_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QroaYOh1EzMQ7kNvgENXv4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD7OjWWC1iajBfDvxw5zdSAb1YJTom719I8C7lqgVFQPQ&oe=66716A71 | 0 | 3 | Reborn - I am the Protagonist ONLY on Miiow TV.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Happy Drama Catching Up | 11 | https://facebook.com/61559368364181 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877806 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 464860922861805 | 1 | 9.9282116889382E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112529452120441 | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | 120208804444970262 | valhallatahoe.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Endless Fun | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | https://www.valhallatahoe.com/events?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_Arts_and_Entertainment&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4776544-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1717537001 | 1.1252945212044E+14 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447788387_973058027552655_9209561098459223618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7p2S5rdxmQIQ7kNvgHzzhfO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDF0PH1TD-cDvU0hyHYa5TyIM5zhcLon1X5hunRUu7UZg&oe=66714C95 | person_profile | 0 | Valhalla Tahoe | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446898337_492000286584096_6117367585715937578_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu6mCDOZ-o0Q7kNvgEMYUPV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRlt9zZnU6xVZZ1pufWkdGp9ShfyLRGIdkie9BXk_cug&oe=66715534 | 0 | 3 | Embrace Summer at Valhalla Tahoe! | Valhalla Tahoe | 6939 | https://facebook.com/ValhallaTahoe | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877811 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 484727797317617 | 1 | 3.8233189212365E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209928093240713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe. | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313534 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444151843_474469511617545_4871444314462096977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5n_Vo2WMopYQ7kNvgE9B6wM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6In7BdSNiVUZiidUhTNtyFsbsaBbNzLqeM7VU9hhK0g&oe=66715A58 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444190415_426693070154938_8110181002765708861_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ksHFz3L-ScoQ7kNvgEi29xJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDITbkhRTFHWmVqjHrkW6_SUazguqvuzhjPYaFNOvfQxA&oe=6671719F | 0 | 3 | Cocktails with toes in the sand and the best sunset view on the Lake. The Rum Bar awaits the pleasure of your company. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6704 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877818 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgGT72EL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPBISBa2anH94iMxljO0Hjcrm09CudHXGmPaUeM94Zwg&oe=6671595D | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ff698nohMA0Q7kNvgHQkash&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPYI6TUjKCW2gez-nTpSyOiio4atmMyY1Y5MjtxC_V0Q&oe=66716C4F | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877809 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 813917570331061 | 1 | 7.9554510244167E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 456396411095326 | 0 | Michaelis Mattress | 120208663124750192 | www.michaelismattress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Unbeatable Deals | Michaelis Mattress offers unbeatable deals with fast, easy delivery. Visit any of our 4 convenient locations in the Midlands. | https://www.michaelismattress.com/ | 1717178191 | 4.5639641109533E+14 | Michaelis Mattress | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185212_829265702385938_3114008864186917216_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bPbwnDBHQeUQ7kNvgEGGChm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBvDzdi5h_yO0fRtBumUa9U9fmwV9HDZ9PN2FGL-jZR-w&oe=6671745F | person_profile | 0 | Michaelis Mattress | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447302283_1650268755796816_285649779940373909_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PBBq0QOWc18Q7kNvgHguXTU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDrXxO6-WMK5ykg6QGiJ1Hf910tD-O5Y9Is5nVK7kwoYg&oe=667169C2 | 0 | 3 | Get $300 in FREE accessories with the purchase of any Tempur-Pedic mattress! | Michaelis Mattress | 468 | https://facebook.com/MichaelisMattressCompany | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877810 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333765 | 991 | 481369540909827 | 1 | 1.2705164739091E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209928064440713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe. | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313393 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399839_1155585775792639_3141734500634698788_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EWCA7d4MFScQ7kNvgG0chJe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBj8zV4mL8PrxLIvlfpw51RMZZ7-lP85QiVKSEBPIketQ&oe=66716985 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441494432_1443238833234526_5087560177690967038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaY-pwEvJY8Q7kNvgHoJiy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAd9v0lgCRIKA-WWvwcZPhBaYGsJ7buL9EzgNC3MaZg7A&oe=66717A12 | 0 | 3 | When beach play works up an appetite, Beach Bums offers casual lakeside dining for the whole family. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6704 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877813 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333766 | 991 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgHWj9i-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbVnnBGLqOnLd_kdX-ge7UZXN2UdztaNDuGrz4PNLr6Q&oe=667153AF | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6OS809TH6YEQ7kNvgG7Llg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAh2Ny86A56vcgw-fFLk1LGGjG4sSO-S0sUx4z9553sSA&oe=66715A83 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877814 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333766 | 991 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgHWj9i-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbVnnBGLqOnLd_kdX-ge7UZXN2UdztaNDuGrz4PNLr6Q&oe=667153AF | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6OS809TH6YEQ7kNvgG7Llg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAh2Ny86A56vcgw-fFLk1LGGjG4sSO-S0sUx4z9553sSA&oe=66715A83 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877815 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333766 | 991 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgHWj9i-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbVnnBGLqOnLd_kdX-ge7UZXN2UdztaNDuGrz4PNLr6Q&oe=667153AF | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6OS809TH6YEQ7kNvgG7Llg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAh2Ny86A56vcgw-fFLk1LGGjG4sSO-S0sUx4z9553sSA&oe=66715A83 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877817 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333766 | 991 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgHWj9i-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbVnnBGLqOnLd_kdX-ge7UZXN2UdztaNDuGrz4PNLr6Q&oe=667153AF | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6OS809TH6YEQ7kNvgG7Llg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAh2Ny86A56vcgw-fFLk1LGGjG4sSO-S0sUx4z9553sSA&oe=66715A83 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878112 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333766 | 991 | 379270718294139 | 1 | 7.4703713420808E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 241155789412943 | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 120206695304000591 | www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Your Road To Recovery Starts Here | Break free from addiction. | https://www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org/ | 1710394723 | 2.4115578941294E+14 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431869361_348072008207042_2220250795207324178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5oezD1mslxsQ7kNvgEgq5zF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCes1Y19MeZlxrxx8HZKHPvSahYNtMkp4PktkH6qzu4SQ&oe=6671787B | person_profile | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430738651_330975669947882_1433483430364268567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gb6tZSHhmJAQ7kNvgFb0Ux3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA-oRLFiFQc1QR9DRiRW11iQltxJyRrwlNSrvlNG6d8nQ&oe=66715DF3 | 0 | 3 | Are you or someone you love battling a fentanyl addiction? You're not alone. We are ready to help you. | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 2178 | https://facebook.com/InlandValleyRecoveryServices | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710486000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877896 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877897 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878131 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333766 | 991 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOikLX3Is90Q7kNvgEZ0Nil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFQ4KCosA0loOd4qa3mDr7wLGEMtjB6KcxC0frj5_vtQ&oe=66715848 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5YaHIcawK50Q7kNvgH3X9hf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYPKKZIoToUESGZhLjbV4sUgjDsSXbbxevxF8lE4BiYA&oe=66716648 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 644 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877916 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877918 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877922 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877926 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877933 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877937 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333766 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877941 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333767 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877944 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333767 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877946 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333767 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877948 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324477 | 1723333767 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877950 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324477 | 1723333767 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877952 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333767 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877954 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333767 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877964 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333767 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877966 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333767 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877970 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333767 | 991 | 829609101958808 | 1 | 3.4760589169803E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" 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| 1877974 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333767 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877976 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333767 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877980 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333767 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877984 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333768 | 991 | 495065459752719 | 1 | 4.0279158608082E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877988 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324481 | 1723333768 | 991 | 495065459752719 | 1 | 4.0279158608082E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877992 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324481 | 1723333768 | 991 | 865023429002636 | 1 | 8.3220935836537E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878000 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324482 | 1723333769 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878004 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324482 | 1723333769 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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"Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878008 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878009 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878010 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878013 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878014 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878016 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333769 | 991 | 459835549897918 | 1 | 8.1371474369554E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120212123041180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717156295 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447188158_427615253376044_1467412671752920547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jzL6Oa7-ii0Q7kNvgHYA1FB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDod1rIDKYUAlrA1aGXEuetDKbeJdhEFsmdCdH7Z4IesQ&oe=667169C3 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447187806_1591240261718800_9124110637169545735_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zXUuZwRp9HkQ7kNvgE2BrXc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAj773v3nrFxTAgsoNcET57iP6I_OSm8dz0ESuF7mgLug&oe=66715398 | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!” In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. I have never seen Felix like this. His words were no different from a stinging slap in my face, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. "Felix, I..." But he wasn't done yet. "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? My eyes were filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just loved him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878018 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333770 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878020 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333770 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878021 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333770 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878022 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333770 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878026 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333770 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878028 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324484 | 1723333770 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878030 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324484 | 1723333770 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878032 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324485 | 1723333770 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878034 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324485 | 1723333770 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878036 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324486 | 1723333770 | 991 | 302398159575876 | 6 | 7.9376878362617E+15 | 1716274800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878038 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324486 | 1723333771 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878040 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324487 | 1723333771 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878042 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324487 | 1723333771 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878044 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324488 | 1723333771 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878046 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324488 | 1723333771 | 991 | 304024709307949 | 7 | 1.4590207180467E+15 | 1717743600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717484400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878048 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324489 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878050 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324489 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878052 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324490 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878054 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324490 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878056 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324491 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878057 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324491 | 1723333771 | 991 | 350229604734306 | 16 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878061 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324492 | 1723333771 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878063 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324492 | 1723333772 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878065 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324493 | 1723333772 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878067 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324493 | 1723333772 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878069 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333772 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878071 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333772 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878073 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333772 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878075 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324495 | 1723333772 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878077 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324495 | 1723333772 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878079 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324495 | 1723333772 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878081 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324496 | 1723333772 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878083 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324496 | 1723333772 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878085 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324497 | 1723333772 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878087 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324497 | 1723333772 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878089 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333772 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878091 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333772 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878095 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878097 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333773 | 991 | 393988696787729 | 134 | 1.8854502285745E+15 | 1717916400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206471639420590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714048912 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438204857_3774980206154972_7237058433935536135_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OKDdbxcI6n8Q7kNvgHOWtnC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBuNgiRiFjXdVNq0NvOMUDV7fGGavEXjeCt880TM8A-sQ&oe=6671782F | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438231205_299938246533722_5103852333164820359_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3m3PxqjWOwoQ7kNvgHskj2u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCAgXNmzB1sH7fmOoKCb7m-LGvIYhvUerl-Ex4X5u8m0Q&oe=667169D6 | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his family’s business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginning… | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878098 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333773 | 991 | 400334022830841 | 171 | 8.6820382531992E+14 | 1717916400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206471638060590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714048904 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438725622_3353819338253931_3291281500528851549_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ij-_aej6d0UQ7kNvgGXq49P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBze9dgEN0jvpWN7Nsjw7LmWxbCWBn1yxl1a1ChmvN18w&oe=6671579C | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438741466_1465480227412097_3694157891414847844_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mRS7noSroGYQ7kNvgHYc9GA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiO8dXlKWqNzkWViE76H0bzpflz8paDNYOOFEBORcBeQ&oe=667146FA | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his family’s business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginning… | JoyReels | 2308 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878101 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324499 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. 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| 1878103 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324501 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878105 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324501 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878106 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. 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Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878116 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324503 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878118 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324504 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878120 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324505 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1361528064521212 | 1 | 7.4287710132688E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208075188720056 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11230&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717941362 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422079631_823590829824839_4719608256142825580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TN4YyQ3pLAcQ7kNvgG_-nyG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCeHvk5IxSn9_cB3jYwQW644NjFPIMZXJqu1eyDNNZaPg&oe=66717986 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057328_1702104656985535_4588455529970348064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5anZ9pA6410Q7kNvgEECYPk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPhjipUi60s307sfUuyMU96IG0aKu7VNK7p_1Hc3B3yg&oe=6671750A | 0 | 3 | Yvette Snyder stood at the entrance of the hospital, her body frail, clutching a report in her thin hands. Three words on the report stood out: "No conception detected". "You've been married for three years. How are you not conceived?" Her mother, Yara Cadwell, demanded, jabbing a finger in Yvette's face disappointedly. Yara was dressed lavishly and wore high heels. "Why are you so useless? If you don't get conceived soon, the Lanes are going to kick you out of the family. What's going to happen to our family then?" Yvette looked at Yara blankly. She had a lot to say, but the words were stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could manage was, "I'm sorry." "I don't want you to be sorry. I want you to give birth to Xavier's child. Do you understand me?" Yvette's throat felt tight; she didn't know how to answer Yara. In their three years of marriage, her husband, Xavier Lane, had never slept with her. How could she ever have his child? Yara stared at Yvette. The latter's weak demeanor was so unlike her own. Finally, she said coldly before leaving, "If you really can't give him a child, then find him a woman who can. At least he'll appreciate you for that." Yvette stared after Yara's retreating figure in disbelief. Had her own mother just told her to find another woman for her husband to sleep with? ... As Yvette made her journey home, she couldn't stop thinking about Yara's parting words. Suddenly, a loud ringing in her ear drowned out her thoughts. She knew that her condition had worsened. Just then, she received a message on her phone. It was from Xavier, and the content was the same as always. "I'm not coming home tonight." In the past three years they had been married, Xavier had never spent the night at home before. He had never so much as touched Yvette either. Yvette could remember their wedding night three years ago. He had told her, "Since your family is bold enough to trick me into marrying you, you'd better be prepared to spend the rest of your life in loneliness." Three years ago, the Snyder and Lane families had decided to form an alliance through marriage. Both families had agreed to mutually beneficial terms in the agreement. But when the day of the wedding came around, the Snyder family went back on their word and transferred all of their assets away, including the billions that Xavier had paid to marry Yvette. Yvette's eyes dulled at the memory. She replied to Xavier's text with her usual response: "Okay." Without her realizing it, the report she was holding got scrunched up in her hands. When she got home, Yvette tossed the report into the trash can. Every month, around this time, she would feel unusually lethargic. Yvette didn't prepare dinner for herself. She just leaned back on the couch, blearily drifting in and out of sleep. The rumbling in her ear persisted. That was another reason why Xavier hated her—she was hard of hearing, which, to the rich and powerful, was no better than being crippled. Xavier would never allow her to carry his child. … At 5 o'clock in the morning, the pendulum clock on the wall chimed dully. Xavier would be home in an hour. Yvette realized too late that she had fallen asleep on the couch. She got up hastily and went to the kitchen to prepare Xavier's breakfast. Xavier was a meticulous man who was strict about punctuality, not only with himself but also with the people around him. He arrived home at six o'clock sharp. Xavier was a tall and handsome man. Clad in a smart tailored suit, his demeanor was quiet and reserved, yet undoubtedly masculine. However, to Yvette, he was cold and distant. Xavier didn't even look at Yvette. He walked right past her to look at the food on the table and said with a scoff, "You do this every day. Are you a nanny or what?" Over the past three years, Yvette had been doing the same things over and over again. She wore the same dark clothes and replied to his messages with the same singular word. If it hadn't been for the business alliance and the Snyders' deceit, Xavier would never have married a woman like Yvette. At the word "nanny", the rumbling in Yvette's ears returned. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat, and said bravely, "Xav, do you have someone that you like?" Her sudden question surprised Xavier. His eyes darkened. "What do you mean by that?" Yvette raised her head and stared at him, swallowing the bile rising in the back of her throat. "If you love someone else, you can be with her—" Before she could finish, Xavier interrupted her. "You're mad." ... After Xavier left, Yvette sat on the balcony alone, staring out into the cold rain. The sound of the raindrops drifted in and out of clarity. She took off her hearing aids, letting the world around her fall into silence. A month ago, her doctor had told her, "Ms. Snyder, there's been a pathological change in your auditory nerves and some of your cranial nerves, causing your hearing to worsen. If this goes on, you may lose your hearing completely." Not used to a silent world, Yvette went to the living room and turned on the television. She turned up the volume to the max, which allowed her to hear some sound. By coincidence, the television was showing an interview with Daphne Reyes, an internationally renowned singer known for her love songs. Yvette's hands trembled slightly as she gripped the remote control. Daphne was Xavier's first love. It had been a long time since Yvette had seen her, but Daphne was still as pretty as ever. She was confident and relaxed in front of the cameras, unlike the shy and frightened young woman who had begged the Snyders for sponsorship in the past. When the interviewer asked Daphne why she had returned to her home country, her answer was bold. "I came home to get my first love back." The remote control slipped out of Yvette's hands. Her heart also fell to her stomach. Flustered, Yvette turned off the television and went to the table to clean up the uneaten breakfast. When she got to the kitchen, she found that Xavier had forgotten to take his phone. She picked it up and saw the unread messages on the lock screen. "Xav, you must have been unhappy over the past few years, right?" "I know you don't love her. How about we meet up tonight? I've missed you." Yvette stared blankly at the messages until the screen went dark again. Then, she called a cab to Xavier's office. On the way, she stared out of the window. The rain fell incessantly. It felt like it would never stop. Xavier never liked it when Yvette visited him at his office, so whenever she was there, she would take the service elevator from the loading bay. When Xavier's assistant, Mark Xyrax, saw her, he just greeted her impassively, "Ms. Snyder." No one around Xavier considered Yvette his wife. She was nothing but a smear on his reputation. When Xavier saw Yvette bringing him his phone, he frowned. She was always like this. No matter what he forgot, be it his lunch, his documents, a shirt, or even an umbrella, she would bring them to him. "I thought I told you that you didn't need to deliver my things to me yourself." Yvette froze. "Sorry, I forgot." Since when had her memory been so bad? Maybe she had panicked after seeing Daphne's message and became afraid that Xavier would disappear from her life suddenly. Before she left, she looked back at Xavier. Unable to help herself, she blurted out, "Xav, do you still like Daphne?" Xavier thought that Yvette had been behaving rather strangely lately. She kept forgetting things and asking weird questions. How could a person like her be his wife? Impatiently, he replied, "If you have so much free time, go find yourself something to do." Yvette had tried getting a job before, but Xavier's mother, Shannon Guetta, had reprimanded her without holding back. "Do you want the whole world to know that Xav married a disabled woman with hearing issues?" Therefore, Yvette had given up on finding a job and focused on her fruitless life as "Mrs. Lane" at Dewberry Estate. … At home, she sat alone until nightfall. She couldn't sleep. Just then, the phone on her bedside table rang loudly. It was a call from an unfamiliar number. Yvette picked up the call. A familiar voice, yet one she dreaded, sounded from the other end. "Is this Yvvy? Xav is drunk. Can you come pick him up?" When Yvette arrived at Sternhow Club, she heard loud coaxing and jeering from the wealthy heirs inside the private room. "Daph, didn't you say you came back to get our dear Mr. Lane back into your arms? This is your chance now. Go on, tell him how you feel!" Daphne was a pretty woman who was popular wherever she went. She was also Xavier's first love, so the rich young men of the upper crust were happy to push the two together. Daphne wasn't shy at all. She turned to Xavier and said without any reservations, "I like you, Xav. Please be with me again." That was what Yvette heard when she arrived at the door of the private room. Inside, the other people were urging Xavier to answer Daphne. His best friend, Tristan Shaw, was the most vocal among them. "Xav, you've been waiting for Daphne for three years. She's back now. So, go on, answer her!" Yvette stood frozen outside the door. Her heart was pounding. Just then, one of the men pulled the door open. "Ms. Snyder?" Chapter 2 Everyone in the private room looked over at the door. For a moment, the room was eerily silent. Yvette immediately caught sight of Xavier in the middle of the room. His eyes were clear and bright. He was clearly not drunk. She knew that she had been tricked by Daphne. When Xavier saw Yvette, his pupils constricted. Everyone else in the room looked awkward, including Tristan, who had been the most vocal in getting Xavier to accept Daphne's confession earlier. Yvette shouldn't have gone there. Daphne was the first to break the silence. "Please don't get the wrong idea, Yvvy. Tristan was joking. Xavier and I are just friends." Before Yvette could answer, Xavier stood up impatiently. "There's no need to explain it to her." Then, he stalked over to Yvette. "What are you doing here?" "I thought you were drunk, so I came to take you home," Yvette answered truthfully. Xavier scoffed. "You really didn't retain anything I told you, did you?" Lowering his voice, he said softly so that only she could hear him, "Are you here to remind everyone that I was tricked into marrying you three years ago? Did you think they forgot?" Yvette was stunned. Xavier gave her a cold look. "Stop seeking attention. You're only making me hate you more." With that, he turned away, leaving Yvette standing alone. Yvette stared after his retreating figure, unable to snap out of her shock. None of the other scions in the room took pity on her when they saw Xavier ignoring her. Tristan even had no qualms in telling Daphne, who was feigning distress, "You're too kind, Daphne. You didn't need to explain anything. "If Yvette hadn't scammed Xav, he would've married you in the first place. You wouldn't have needed to suffer abroad as well." Despite the constant ringing in her ears, Yvette could still hear every word clearly. She knew better than anyone that even if Xavier hadn't married her, he wouldn't have married Daphne. Daphne was a nobody with no background, after all. Daphne was well aware of this as well. That was why she had chosen to break up with Xavier and leave the country. How had everything turned out to be Yvette's fault? When Yvette left Sternhow Club with her umbrella, she felt as if she had been enveloped by darkness. Just then, a lithe figure appeared beside her. It was Daphne. She was decked out in fine clothes, complete with high heels. She looked smug. "It's a cold night, isn't it? So, how does it feel to get scoffed at by Xavier after you came all the way here at this time to get him?" Yvette didn't answer her, but Daphne didn't mind her silence. She just continued speaking. "I do pity you, you know. You've never experienced true love before, have you? "Do you know that when I was with Xav, he would cook for me himself? When I was sick, he would drop everything and stay with me. "Has Xav ever told you he loves you? He used to say that to me all the time…" Yvette listened to Daphne's rambling quietly, her mind going over the past three years she had been married to Xavier. He had never so much as stepped into the kitchen during that time. When she had gotten sick, he had never comforted her. He had never told her he loved her either. … That night, Yvette couldn't fall asleep. She had only just found out that the man she had loved for the past 12 years had once loved another with all his heart, in the spectacular way that only young people could. At that moment, she realized that it was time for her to give him up. She had a sleepless night. The next morning, Xavier returned home. The glare he gave her was cold. "How attached are you to the Lane family's money, to me, your money-making robot?" he demanded. Yvette was stunned. She didn't know what had gotten into him so early in the morning. Instinctively, she said, "I never wanted your money." She had only ever wanted Xavier. Xavier laughed in disdain. "Then, why did your mother come to my office and beg me to give you a child?" Yvette was stunned. She stared into Xavier's eyes. It was only then that she realized that he wasn't angry about what had happened last night. Xavier had no desire to waste his breath on her. "If you want to continue staying with me and keep your family afloat, tell your mother to behave herself!" ... In the end, Yvette didn't need to look for Yara. Yara found Yvette instead. She was no longer cold and distant; she gripped Yvette's hands and said gently, "Yvvy, you should ask Xavier to give you a child. He doesn't have to do it biologically. He could do it through scientific measures." Scientific measures. Yvette stared at Yara in shock as the latter continued, "Daphne told me that Xavier hasn't slept with you in the past three years." That was the last straw for Yvette. She didn't know why Xavier would tell Daphne about that. Maybe he really loved Daphne a lot. With that thought, she suddenly felt relieved. "Just let it go, Mom." Yara paused. She frowned. "What?" "I'm tired. I want to get a divorce—" Before she could finish, Yara slapped her hard across the face. The kind, motherly facade was gone in an instant. She jabbed a finger at Yvette and gritted out, "You have no right to ask for a divorce! "Without the Lane family, what do you think you're going to do? Who's going to remarry a disabled divorcee like you?" Yvette felt her body go numb. Yara had never liked Yvette, even when the latter had been a child. Yara had been a famous dancer. The fact that she had given birth to a daughter with hearing issues was one of her biggest regrets. Therefore, she had sent Yvette away to be taken care of by a nanny. She had only allowed Yvette to return home when the latter started school. People used to tell Yvette that every mother loved their child. So, she had done everything she could to excel at everything in hopes of making Yara happy. Despite her hearing issues, she had been at the top of her class in dance, music, and art classes. But no matter how hard she tried, Yara still didn't consider her a good daughter. In Yara's words, Yvette wasn't "complete". Not only physically, but also in love and familial relationships. After Yara left, Yvette used some makeup to cover up the red print on her face. Then, she packed her bags quietly. Even after three years of married life, all her personal belongings fit into a single suitcase. After she finished packing up, she gathered her courage and sent Xavier a message. "Are you free tonight? I need to talk to you." Xavier didn't reply to her. Yvette's eyes darkened. She knew that he didn't want to reply to her messages. All she could do was wait for him to come home in the morning. She had thought that he wouldn't come home that night, but he got back at midnight. Yvette wasn't asleep at the time. She went up to him and took his coat and bag from him with familiarity in her actions. It was as if they were a normal married couple. Xavier's cold voice broke the peace. "Don't send me inane texts again." As Yvette held Xavier's coat, her hand trembled slightly. "I won't do it again," she mumbled. Xavier didn't notice anything wrong with her tone. He went straight to his study. Generally, if he came home, he would stay holed up in his study. He probably thought that someone who was hard of hearing would live in a silent world. Either that, or he simply didn't care about Yvette. That would explain why he got straight to discussing his acquisition of Snyder Group in his study as if nothing was wrong. When Yvette brought him some soup, she heard Xavier animatedly discussing work with his employees. He was talking about the acquisition of Snyder Group, her father, James Snyder's company. She didn't know how to feel about that. She knew that her brother, Terrence Synder, was useless at running a business, so it was only a matter of time before Snyder Group fell. However, she had never thought that her own husband would be the first to cause Snyder Group's downfall. "Xav," she interrupted. Xavier was slightly startled. Out of guilt, or maybe some other emotion, he quickly hung up the phone and closed his laptop. Feigning ignorance, Yvette walked into the study and placed the bowl in front of him. "Have some soup, then get to bed soon. Your health is more important than work." For some reason, Xavier felt himself relax when he heard her soft voice. She probably hadn't heard anything. Feeling conflicted, he stopped Yvette before she could leave. "You said you wanted to talk to me. What is it?" Hearing this, Yvette turned back to look at him. Softly, she said, "I just wanted to ask if you're free in the morning so we can go and file for divorce." Chapter 3 Yvette's voice was calm and impassive, as though divorce were a menial matter to her. Xavier's pupils contracted. "What did you just say?" Over the last three years, no matter what he had done, Yvette had never brought up divorce. In truth, Xavier knew that Yvette loved him. Her eyes, which were usually dull and empty, were clear and bright now. "I'm sorry for being a burden over the last few years, Mr. Lane. We should get divorced." Xavier clenched his fists unconsciously. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you? Snyder Group was already failing; it won't matter whether I buy it or someone else does. What are you trying to do by bringing up divorce? "Is it because you want money? Or a child? Or do you want me to leave Snyder Group alone?" he asked coldly. "Don't forget that I don't love you. Your threats won't work on me!" At that moment, he seemed like a stranger to Yvette. A lump formed in her throat as her ears began throbbing. Even though she was wearing her hearing aids, she could barely hear what Xavier was saying. She could only answer his last question. "I don't want anything." Afraid that he would notice something wrong with her, Yvette left the study in a hurry. As he watched her leave, Xavier felt frustrated for some reason. He had never felt like this before. Not one to hold in his emotions, he flipped the table over. The bowl of soup that Yvette had brought him spilled all over the ground. ... Back in her own room, Yvette forced herself to swallow a handful of pills. She reached up to touch her ear. As she retracted her fingers, she saw crimson blood on them. Thanks to the medicine, her hearing recovered a little by the time it was dawn. Yvette stared blankly at the soft rays of sunlight streaming from the window. "The rain has stopped," she said quietly to herself. Xavier didn't leave the manor that day. He was in the living room bright and early, settled on the couch, waiting for Yvette to apologize and express her regret to him. This wasn't the first time Yvette had lost her temper with him. However, after every tantrum, she would apologize to him before long. Xavier figured that it would be the same this time around. Soon, he saw Yvette coming out of her room, all freshened up. She wore her usual dark-colored clothes. She dragged a suitcase with one hand while holding a piece of paper in the other. She handed the paper to him. It was a divorce agreement. "Let me know when you have time, Xav." With that, she left the manor, pulling her suitcase behind her. It was bright and sunny outside. Yvette felt as if she had gotten a new chance at life. Meanwhile, Xavier sat frozen on the couch, still clutching the divorce agreement in his hand. It took him a long time to come back to his senses. It was Saturday. Usually, around this time of the year, Xavier would take Yvette back to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors. During this time, they would have to endure strange looks from his extended family. However, he was alone that day, which made him extraordinarily happy. At Lane Mansion, Shannon and the rest of the Lanes were surprised to see him alone. In the past, Yvette had always been the first one to turn up every year and the last to leave since she had been trying to please everyone. Why wasn't she there today? Shanon frowned and asked Xavier, "Where's Yvette, Xav?" Xavier's expression turned cold. "She wanted a divorce and left me." Everyone fell silent in disbelief when he said that. Shannon was shocked. She knew that Yvette probably loved Xavier more than anything in the world, only surpassed by his own parents. Seven years ago, Yvette had even protected Xavier with her own body when someone had attempted to stab him. Four years ago, not long after the two had gotten engaged, something had happened to Xavier while he had been on a business trip in Dibay. Everyone had been convinced that he was dead, but Yvette had refused to believe that. She had dropped everything and gone to the foreign city just to look for him. Then, after they had gotten married, Yvette had taken care of almost everything in his life with meticulous precision, including being polite to everyone around him, even his secretaries. She had always been afraid of offending them. Yvette clearly couldn't live without Xavier. So, why had she suggested getting a divorce? Shannon had no idea, but she was glad that Yvette had finally decided to let Xavier go. "She's not worthy to be your wife anyway. It's a good thing that you're divorcing her. She doesn't deserve you," she said The others immediately chimed in. "Yeah, you're young and handsome, Xav. You're in your best years now. Yvette's been dragging you down all this time!" Instantly, the gathering turned into a slander fest. They spoke of Yvette as if she were an unforgivable criminal. Xavier should have felt happy that they were defending him, but for some reason, he found their words too sharp and crass. He left Lane Mansion earlier than usual and made his way back to Dewberry Estate. The sky was just starting to darken when he arrived home. He opened the door and entered the manor. When he saw nothing but darkness, he remembered, with a start, that Yvette had left. He changed into his house slippers and tossed his coat into the washer. For some reason, he felt unusually exhausted today. He went to the wine cellar to get a bottle of wine so that he could celebrate Yvette's leaving. However, when he got to the wine cellar and saw the locked door, he realized too late that he didn't have the key. He didn't like strangers in his house, so there were no maids or servants at Dewberry Estate. Ever since he had married Yvette, she had been the one taking care of the household affairs. He could only go back to his room. Picking up his phone, he scrolled through his messages only to find work-related texts. Yvette hadn't called or texted him to apologize at all. Tossing his phone aside, he got up and headed over to the kitchen. When he opened the door of the fridge, he was stunned. Apart from food, there were also a lot of supplements. He picked one of the bags up and read the instructions on it. "Take five times a day for incapable of conceived." He took a whiff of the supplement. It smelled disgusting. He recalled that Yvette always smelled strange. So, this was why. He scoffed silently. They had never slept, so no matter how much medicine she took, she would never have gotten conceived. ... Meanwhile, over in a dark and dinky hotel, Yvette opened her eyes blearily. Her head was pounding. The world was silent. She knew, then, that her condition had worsened again. Before this, she had still been able to hear some sounds, even without her hearing aids. She pushed herself up and felt around on the bedside table until she found her medicine. She popped the pills in her mouth, tasting their bitterness. The day before, she had left Dewberry Estate, which had been her home for the past three years. At first, she had gone to her parents' house, Snyder Residence. However, at the door, she had overheard Yara and Terrence discussing how they would marry her off to an old man if the Lanes kicked her out. Yvette had blanked upon hearing that. It was then that she finally realized that she had no place to call home anymore. Even though she hadn't eaten anything in two days, she still didn't feel hungry. However, it was too quiet. The silence scared her. It had been raining more frequently in Tirion this year than it had in previous years. Yvette stared out at the passing pedestrians. Most of them were paired up or in groups. She was the only one alone. She bought a bus ticket heading out of the city. She decided to go to her nanny's house in the countryside. Viola Xenos, her nanny, had taken care of her when she was a child. It was already 9:00 pm when Yvette got there. When Viola saw Yvette, she looked pleasantly surprised. Yvette teared up when she saw Viola's warm smile. She reached out to her and hugged her. "Viola." Due to health issues, Viola had never married and didn't have children of her own. Yvette was closer to her than she was to her own mother. That night, Yvette cuddled up in Viola's embrace, just like she had when she was a child. Viola wrapped her arms around Yvette, only to realize that the latter was very thin. She pressed a hand on the Yvette's bony back, trembling uncontrollably. Forcing herself to calm down, she asked cautiously, "Has Xavier been treating you well, Yvvy?" Yvette felt a sharp pain in her throat when she heard Xavier's name. She wanted to lie to Viola and tell her that Xavier had treated her well, but she knew that Viola wasn't silly. Since she had already made up her mind to leave him, there was no need to lie to herself or to the people who loved her any longer. "The person he loves has returned. I've decided to let him go and divorce him." Viola was stunned. She couldn't believe her ears. Yvette had told her multiple times before that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Xavier. Not knowing what else to say, she comforted Yvette by telling her that there were plenty of other fish in the sea. There was bound to be one who would love her. Yvette just nodded silently. The buzzing in her ears drowned out Viola's comforting voice. That night, she managed to get a good night's sleep, which was rare. However, when she woke up, she was greeted with the alarming sight of blood staining the spot where her head had laid on the pillow. Yvette touched her right ear. Her fingers felt sticky. She looked at her hand. It was covered in blood. Chapter 4 Even Yvette's hearing aids were stained red. Her pupils contracted, and she quickly grabbed some tissues to wipe her ear. Then, she stripped the bedsheets and washed them. She was afraid that Viola would worry about her if she found out that her illness was worsening. So, she cleaned up the mess and found an excuse to bid goodbye to Viola. Before she left, she placed a part of her savings on the bedside table without telling Viola. Viola walked Yvette to the bus stop and waved goodbye reluctantly. … After Yvette left, Viola couldn't stop thinking about how thin the former was. Unable to just sit by, she called Lane Group. When the secretary heard that Viola was Yvette's nanny and wanted to speak to Xavier, she transferred the call to Xavier's line. It was the third day after Yvette had left Xavier. It was also the first time in three days that he had received a call about her. Sitting behind his desk, he felt exceptionally pleased. Just as he had expected, Yvette wouldn't be able to last more than three days without him—or so he thought. Viola's voice came through the other line, sounding weighed with age. "Mr. Lane, I am Yvvy's nanny. I've been taking care of her since she was a baby. "Please, I beg you, treat her well. Don't hurt her more than you already have. She's not as strong as she seems on the surface. "When she was born, Mrs. Snyder left her in my care because she didn't like that Yvvy is hard of hearing. Yvvy only returned home when she had to start going to school. "The Snyders have never treated her as one of their own. Apart from Mr. Snyder, everyone else treated her like she was a maid. "You and Mr. Snyder are the most important people she has in this world. I'm begging you, please. Please be kind to her." Xavier's mood darkened when he heard what Viola said. "Did she tell you to give me this sob story because she didn't want to face me herself?" he asked coldly. "Why should I care about her life? If you ask me, she deserved everything she got!" That said, he hung up the phone without waiting for an answer. Viola had heard Yvette gushing about how nice Xavier was to her. So, it was only then that she realized the truth—Xavier wasn't a good man at all. He wasn't a good husband to Yvette. ... Yvette sat on the bus, heading home. Just then, her phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier. "You said you wanted to get divorced, right? I'll see you at 10:00 am tomorrow." Yvette stared at the text blankly for a while before replying, "Okay." Just one word. It infuriated Xavier and completely ruined his mood. Unable to work anymore, he called up his friends and invited them out for drinks. Daphne was also at the club when he arrived. "I'm not going home until I'm drunk!" she declared. Tristan sat down beside Xavier. He couldn't help asking curiously, "How's Deaf Yvvy?" Xavier raised an eyebrow at him. "There's no need to talk about her ever again. We're filing for divorce tomorrow." Tristan was stunned. He couldn't believe his ears. "Really?" Beside them, Daphne brightened. She poured out a shot for him. "Congrats on getting back your freedom, Xav!" Xavier drank a lot that night. Daphne offered to send him home, but he rejected her suggestion. "No need. It's not appropriate." If he and Yvette were going to get divorced tomorrow, she might come home that night. Daphne wasn't happy about the rejection. "Why? You're divorcing her anyway. Why wouldn't it be appropriate? Are you still scared that she might find out about our relationship?" Their relationship? Xavier narrowed his eyes. "You're overthinking this." He got into his own car. Out of consideration, he also called a cab to send Daphne home. On the drive home, he kept unlocking his phone to check if Yvette had sent him any messages. She hadn't. When he reached Dewberry Estate, it was dark. With a stormy expression, Xavier opened the door and turned on the light. Yvette was nowhere to be seen. She hadn't come home. The manor was left exactly the way it had been when she had left. Still feeling the effects of the wine, Xavier threw himself heavily onto the couch and soon fell asleep. In his nightmares, Yvette was covered in blood, but there was a smile on her face. "I don't love you anymore, Xav," she said. When Xavier jolted awake, the sky outside had just brightened up. He rubbed his forehead and went to the bathroom to freshen himself up. Then, he changed into a smart suit and made his way to the courthouse. At the entrance of the courthouse, he spotted Yvette standing under a tree not far off. As usual, she was dressed in dark-colored clothes. From the distance, she looked incredibly frail and thin as she stood amid the drizzle. It was as if a single gust of wind could knock her over. Xavier could still remember how young and lively she had been when they had first gotten married. She hadn't been as thin and gloomy back then. Holding an umbrella, he walked toward Yvette. It took her a few moments to notice him. Xiaver hadn't changed much over the last three years. He was as handsome and as confident as ever, with the added hint of matureness that came with age. Yvette was a little dazed. The last three years felt like a blink in time to her, yet she also seemed to have exhausted a whole lifetime. Xavier stalked over to Yvette and gazed at her coldly. He was waiting for her to apologize to him. She had been sulking enough. It was time to put an end to this. However, Yvette just said, "I'm sorry to pull you away from your work. Let's go in." Xavier stiffened, but he quickly recovered. "Don't regret this." With that, he turned and headed into the courthouse. Yvette stared after him sadly. Would she regret this? She didn't know either. In the courthouse, the judge asked them if they were sure about going through with the divorce. Yvette's answer was firm. "Yes." Her determined expression frustrated Xavier. After filing for divorce, they still had to return to the courthouse in a month. If they didn't show up, then the divorce would be considered null. As they left the courthouse, Yvette looked at Xavier, her expression unusually calm. "I'll see you next month. Take care." With that, she stepped out into the rain, hailed a cab, and left. Xavier was left standing on the spot. He didn't know how to feel as he watched her car leave. Relieved, probably. Relieved that he wouldn't need to put up with her any longer or endure others' ridicule for having a disabled wife. ... In the cab, Yvette leaned against the window and stared blankly at the rain droplets on the glass. In the rearview mirror, the driver suddenly saw blood dripping from her ear. He was shocked by the sight. "Miss? Miss!" Yvette didn't answer him. The driver hastily stopped the car. Yvette was confused. They weren't at her destination yet. Why had they stopped? She looked over at the driver and saw him mouthing silently. She realized that she had gone deaf again. "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. What are you saying?" In the end, the driver had to type out what he wanted to say on his phone so that he could tell her about her bleeding ear. Yvette reached out belatedly and felt the warm sensation in her ear. She was used to it now. "It's alright. This happens all the time. I'm fine." She was hard of hearing, but her ears hadn't bled like this before. Two years ago, at a gathering, Tristan had pushed her into a swimming pool. Yvette didn't know how to swim, so she had almost drowned. At the same time, her eardrums had also expanded due to the pressure. She had been sent to the hospital, but the damage had been done. At the time, she had been told that everything was fine. Why was this happening again? The cab driver was still worried, so he dropped her off at the hospital she told him. After thanking him, Yvette went into the hospital on her own. This time, she saw her usual doctor, Tom Jensen. "Dr. Jensen, my memory has been rather bad lately. I kept forgetting what I'm doing," she said. When she had woken up at the hotel that morning, it had taken her a long time to remember that she had to file for divorce with Xavier. Tom looked at her latest report worriedly. "Ms. Snyder, I think you should consider getting tested for other things. Specifically, mental health issues." Mental health… Following Tom's recommendation, Yvette went and got a psychiatric diagnosis. She was diagnosed with depression. It turned out that patients with severe depression often experienced memory loss. Before heading back to the hotel, Yvette stopped and bought a notebook and a pen. She wrote down everything that had happened lately. She placed the notebook right beside her bed so that it would be the first thing she saw when she woke up in the morning. News of her and Xavier's divorce spread quickly. That night, Yara called her multiple times, but she didn't hear anything. … When she woke up the next morning, she saw a barrage of texts from Yara. "Where are you?" "Who do you think you are? Even if you're getting a divorce, Xavier should have been the one to ask for it!" "You're such a jinx! Back when you got married, your dad got into a car crash and died. What's going to happen now that you're getting divorced? Do you want Snyder Group to go bankrupt? Is that it?" Yvette stared at the messages. She was used to the verbal bully by now. She typed out a reply. "Mom, it's time that we live by our own merits. We shouldn't depend on others so much." Yara's response was swift. "You're such an ingrate! I shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Yvette didn't bother replying to that. She placed her phone aside. She just had to wait a month. Once the divorce was finalized, she would be able to leave Tirion and start a new life. … Yvette's health worsened over the next few days. She often found herself completely deaf. Sometimes, it took a very long time for her hearing to go back to normal. Her memory was deteriorating too. On the bright side, even though her hearing loss was incurable, at least she could do something about the depression. She tried everything she could to keep herself happy. She busied herself by registering as a volunteer online. She spent time taking care of abandoned old people and orphans. Helping them made her feel like she had a reason to continue living. A few days later, Yvette woke up in the morning and checked her notebook as usual. Then, she got ready to head out to the orphanage. When she picked up her phone, she saw several unread messages. There were messages from Terrance and Yara, as well as Daphne. She opened the texts one by one. Yara: "As you wished, Snyder Group is no more." Terrence: "Keep hiding. You're the most cowardly and cruel person I've ever seen." Daphne: "My condolences, Yvette. Actually, I think Snyder Group would thrive better under Xav." Daphne: "Since your family has helped me so much in the past, do let me know if you need anything. I'll help you if I can." Yvette had no idea what was happening. She closed the messaging app. Almost immediately, she got a notification about the latest news. Chapter 5 Yvette watched the news and saw the press conference held by Lane Group. It was an announcement that Xavier had successfully acquired Snyder Group. James' company no longer existed in the world. … Things on Xavier's end had been extra pleasant lately. He had acquired Snyder Group and gotten his revenge. "The Snyder family finally got what they deserved for tricking you into that marriage three years ago." Tristan chuckled. Yet, he changed the topic in the next instant. He asked Xavier, "Xav, has Deaf Yvvy approached you during the past few days?" Xavier froze halfway through signing a document. He didn't know why, but people around him kept mentioning Yvette these days. "No," he replied coldly. That shocked Tristan. After all, how could Yvette not do anything when something this massive had happened to her family? With that in mind, he spoke again. "Could it be that she's finally come around? I heard her family has been looking everywhere for her. Nobody knows where she's gone—" He kept blabbering on. Xavier frowned, feeling utterly annoyed. "Get out!" Tristan jolted. That was when he realized that Xavier was furious. Not daring to say another word, Tristan bolted out of the CEO's office. Once outside, he took his phone and called his assistant, Avery Fitzpatrick. "Have you found Yvette?" "Yes, she's in a small hotel in Hexim Pass," answered Avery. Tristan had Avery send him the location before he drove there. He refused to let Yvette off the hook so easily. So what if she was willing to divorce Xavier now? She had already prevented Xavier and Daphne from being together for over three years! Besides, Daphne had saved Tristan's life once, so he owed her. It rained outside. Yvette finished her volunteer work and picked up her medication from the hospital. Then, she held an umbrella while walking back to the hotel. There were very few people on the road. Tristan drove his car but kept his eyes on Yvette's slim back. He deliberately sped up as he drove past her, sending a puddle of rainwater splashing onto her. Yvette shot him a blank stare. Tristan happened to meet her emotionless gaze through his rearview mirror. He didn't know why, but he felt inexplicably nervous. Yvette recognized Tristan's luxurious, dark gray Bugatti. Yet, she retracted her gaze and pretended not to notice him. Even so, Tristan refused to stop there. He deliberately slowed his car and followed her. "Hey, Deaf Yvvy. So, you have a temper now, huh? "You're not even going to greet me now? Didn't you used to love greeting me? Didn't you enjoy tickling my fancy?" Yvette remained stoic while the former mocked her. She used to do everything to win over those around Xavier, including his friends. It was all because she liked him. She had figured that Xavier's family and friends would one day accept her. Alas, it seemed she had been too naïve. At the previous gathering, Tristan had declared that he was Daphne's friend. He couldn't care less about maintaining his gentlemanly, upper-class image when siding with Daphne. He had insulted Yvette and called her shameless. In the end, he had also thrown her into the pool, leaving her to die. Since then, Yvette had steered clear of him. Upon receiving no reaction or response from Yvette, Tristan stopped the car, opened the door, and strolled toward her. He grabbed her arm and asked, "What stunts are you planning to pull this time?" Yvette's arm hurt, so she looked up at him. "I don't know what you're saying." She wanted to pry his hand off her arm, but he flung her aside. "Don't touch me with your filthy hands!" Tristan bellowed. Yvette stumbled backward before falling to the ground with a loud thud. Tristan froze on the spot in slight disbelief. It baffled him to see Yvette resorting to such tricks. He had only pushed her with a slight force, so how could she fall like that? Seeing people looking their way, he nervously got back into his car. Still, he gave her a warning before driving away. "Don't mess with Daph just because you're a disabled person, Yvette! "She's different from you. It's taken her a lot of effort to get to where she is now, so you'd better not disrupt her and Xav's relationship again!" After driving away, he even told the Snyder family where Yvette was staying. Yvette's hands and knees were scraped when she fell. It hurt so much that she couldn't stand for a long time. Deep down, she didn't understand why Tristan was so blind to what was right and wrong. She recalled risking her life to rescue him from a car that had been about to explode four years ago. His face had been covered in blood, and his eyes hadn't been visible. However, he had spoken in the warmest voice. He had said, "Thank you. I promise I'll repay you someday." Yvette couldn't help but bitterly wonder if this was his way of repaying her. … Once Yvette returned to the hotel, she took a shower and applied medication to her scraped skin. Then, she lay down in a daze. The fall hardened her determination to leave Xavier for good. … The sun was shining brightly outside when Yvette woke up. She got up and headed to the living area, only to see Yara sitting on the couch, wearing a formal dress. Yara didn't seem to care one bit that Yvette had just woken up. She picked the document off the coffee table and handed it to the latter. "Take a good look at this. It's the backup plan I've selected for you." Yvette accepted the document but saw the title "prenuptial agreement" on the cover. She flipped through the pages while reading the contents aloud. "Ms. Yvette Snyder will marry Mr. Liam Lorimer. As his wife, she'll devote herself to him and look after him until the end of his life. Liam will look after Yvette's family, which includes maintaining their quality of life. He'll also provide 300 million as funds for the Snyder family." Following that, the document stated Liam's details. He was an entrepreneur from the older generation in Tirion. He was 78 years old that year. Yvette's mind tensed. At that moment, Yara spoke up again. "Mr. Lorimer has expressed that he doesn't mind that you were married before. "He'll help revive our family's reputation from the ashes, as long as you marry him. Come on, dearest. You wouldn't let me and Terrence down, right?" Yvette's face paled even more. "I can't agree to what you're asking of me." Yara had never imagined that Yvette would reject her so candidly. She blew up in a fit of rage at once. "What right do you have to refuse? I gave you life!" Hearing that, Yvette met Yara's gaze. "How about I return my life to you? Would that mean I no longer owe you?" "What did you say?" Yara shrilled. Yvette's pale lips moved as she said, "If I returned my life to you, would it mean you'd no longer be my mother? And I'll no longer be indebted to you for giving birth to me?" Yara sneered, not believing Yvette would dare do such a thing. "Okay, then. I won't force you to marry Mr. Lorimer if you give your life back to me. But the question is, do you have the guts to do it?" "Give me a month." Yvette seemed determined. In Yara's eyes, Yvette seemed like a crazed person. She warned, "You'd best not threaten me by only saying you'll end your life. We're not that close, so I don't care if you die. However, you must sign this document if you're too afraid to end your life." … Yvette had suppressed all her emotions to the brim and needed to vent somewhere. So, she went to a bar. She sat in a corner, drinking and watching the crowd happily dance in a daze. That was when a dashing man with striking eyes noticed Yvette, who was all alone. He approached and asked, "Yvette?" Yvette stared at the man but didn't recognize him. Still dazed, she asked, "Do you know how one can achieve happiness?" The man was confused. "What did you say?" Yvette continued drinking as she spoke. "The doctor says I'm ill and should try to be happier, but I can't make myself feel happy…" That sparked discomfort in the man, Claude Lander. He wondered if Yvette had forgotten about him. Also, he was confused by what she said—something about being ill and needing to be happier. "You shouldn't be in a place like this if you want to be happy. Why don't I drive you home?" Claude spoke in a gentle tone. A smile curved across Yvette's face as she looked at him. "You're a good person." Complex emotions stirred in Claude when he saw her bitter smile. He wondered what she had been through these past few years. Why did she seem so sorrowful? Meanwhile, Xavier was also at the bar. After settling the divorce papers, he had let himself loose every night. On top of that, he hadn't returned to Dewberry Estate in a long time. It was getting late. When the crowd was about to leave, Daphne noticed a familiar figure in a corner of the bar. She exclaimed, "Isn't that Yvvy?" Xavier glanced in the direction Daphne was staring in and saw a man merrily chatting with Yvette. His expression soured at once. He was disappointed in Yvette for getting drunk at a bar and chatting up another man. He felt like he had thought too highly of her before. "Should we go and check up on her, Xav?" asked Daphne. "No," was all Xavier said before speedily leaving. On the other hand, Yvette declined Claude's offer. "There's no need to trouble yourself. I can go home on my own." Claude was still worried about Yvette, so he ran after her when he noticed her leaving the bar. "Do you really not remember me?" Yvette gazed at him but couldn't recall who he was. "It's Chubbs. Have you forgotten?" Claude reminded her. Only then did Yvette remember her friend, Chubbs, whom she met when she had been living with Viola in the countryside. Back then, Claude had been chubbier and nowhere near Yvette's height. Yet, his six-foot-two-inch frame now towered over her. He had even grown to have handsome features. "I remember now! You've changed so much. I didn't even recognize you!" said Yvette. Meeting an old friend away from home was a pleasant thing. But only a slight smile curved on Yvette's face. That upset Claude. "Come on. I'll drive you home," Claude stated. When he dropped her off, he was shocked to learn she lived in a run-down hotel. Yvette shifted in embarrassment. "Sorry, it's not a glamorous place. Please don't tell Viola I'm living in such a place. I don't want her to worry." Claude nodded. Since it was getting late, it was unwise for him to stay longer. So, he left after telling Yvette he would visit her the next day. He didn't notice the matte black car lingering in a dark area beneath the hotel as he walked out. Now that Claude had left, Yvette felt dizzy and had an upset stomach from drinking too much. That was when someone knocked hard on the door. Yvette had just opened the door when Xavier grabbed her wrist. He exerted so much strength on her slender wrist that it felt close to snapping in half. "You've made me look at you in a new light, Yvette!" Xavier snarled while shutting and locking the door. He then forcefully led her to the couch. He sneered with words as sharp and lethal as a blade, "So, you've already settled on which family you'll marry into next, huh? I knew you wouldn't be so willing to let me go for no reason!" Yvette didn't know why he had come over, nor did she know how he had seen Claude. She was only briefly dazed. Once she snapped out of it, she shot a furious look at Xavier and didn't bother explaining herself to him. The rims of her eyes reddened. "You and I aren't that different from each other." The Snyder family had tricked Xavier into marrying Yvette. However, Xavier had treated her coldly for three years while remaining entangled with his first love. Neither Xavier nor Yvette was a better person than the other. Xavier had also drunk some wine, so he reeked of it. Eyes reddening, he pinched Yvette's chin and spoke with a dangerously low voice. "Who is he? When did you guys meet?" That was the first time Yvette had seen him behave like this. She suddenly chuckled. "Are you jealous?" Xavier's gaze grew tense as he scoffed. "You're unworthy of such a reaction." Yvette became choked up. That was when Xavier leaned in domineeringly and continued interrogating her. "Has he already touched you? Huh?" In her three years of marriage, Yvette had given up on her work and declined to meet her friends whenever they had occasionally invited her out. She had done so to obey the Lane family's rules. But now Xavier was suspicious of her. Relief washed over Yvette just then. She questioned him back, "What do you think?" That utterly angered Xavier, and his heated hands started travelling down her body. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878122 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324505 | 1723333773 | 991 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgFctFf9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBTCcZhmCRm1-uWSWEfotZswOgTLuRHbEbSAkNiJQb4gg&oe=66716064 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YcUkf530xckQ7kNvgHiAEdT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCGEC5u-3DDHWao-0qN68pfpiZ6faqi1YlR1WLt5Zx8cQ&oe=66714CB8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878124 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324505 | 1723333774 | 991 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CTx34oaYgSoQ7kNvgFctFf9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBTCcZhmCRm1-uWSWEfotZswOgTLuRHbEbSAkNiJQb4gg&oe=66716064 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YcUkf530xckQ7kNvgHiAEdT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCGEC5u-3DDHWao-0qN68pfpiZ6faqi1YlR1WLt5Zx8cQ&oe=66714CB8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878150 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333774 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878152 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333774 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878399 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333774 | 991 | 378736201870095 | 1 | 1.5411526701339E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632775139123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Travel Backpack Pro 40L | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717712085 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447599267_1905912836535489_596005494845348748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JzX1UZU4KGgQ7kNvgHUbfLp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCK4BFkuJSiIkh8HZn3b792oLJS6dkr7LszsUbVZbu-wg&oe=66716525 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292018_395532086791475_5774891656927659005_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jDA-Y_UVDR0Q7kNvgGt2ElI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBQaeXInSGvs7gQn1TYYJ4zitVTvij8VASzZqBXUOtEg&oe=66715E51 | 0 | 3 | Wirecutter Pick! | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878154 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333774 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878155 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333774 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878156 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333774 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878400 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333774 | 991 | 378736201870095 | 1 | 1.5411526701339E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632775139123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Travel Backpack Pro 40L | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717712085 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447599267_1905912836535489_596005494845348748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JzX1UZU4KGgQ7kNvgHUbfLp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCK4BFkuJSiIkh8HZn3b792oLJS6dkr7LszsUbVZbu-wg&oe=66716525 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292018_395532086791475_5774891656927659005_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jDA-Y_UVDR0Q7kNvgGt2ElI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBQaeXInSGvs7gQn1TYYJ4zitVTvij8VASzZqBXUOtEg&oe=66715E51 | 0 | 3 | Wirecutter Pick! | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878158 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878159 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878160 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878162 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878163 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878164 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333775 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878402 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333775 | 991 | 378736201870095 | 1 | 1.5411526701339E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632775139123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Travel Backpack Pro 40L | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717712085 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447599267_1905912836535489_596005494845348748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JzX1UZU4KGgQ7kNvgHUbfLp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCK4BFkuJSiIkh8HZn3b792oLJS6dkr7LszsUbVZbu-wg&oe=66716525 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292018_395532086791475_5774891656927659005_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jDA-Y_UVDR0Q7kNvgGt2ElI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBQaeXInSGvs7gQn1TYYJ4zitVTvij8VASzZqBXUOtEg&oe=66715E51 | 0 | 3 | Wirecutter Pick! | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878166 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333776 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878167 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333776 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878168 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333776 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878403 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333776 | 991 | 378736201870095 | 1 | 1.5411526701339E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632775139123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Travel Backpack Pro 40L | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717712085 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447599267_1905912836535489_596005494845348748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JzX1UZU4KGgQ7kNvgHUbfLp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCK4BFkuJSiIkh8HZn3b792oLJS6dkr7LszsUbVZbu-wg&oe=66716525 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292018_395532086791475_5774891656927659005_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jDA-Y_UVDR0Q7kNvgGt2ElI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCBQaeXInSGvs7gQn1TYYJ4zitVTvij8VASzZqBXUOtEg&oe=66715E51 | 0 | 3 | Wirecutter Pick! | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878170 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333776 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878171 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324510 | 1723333776 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878172 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324510 | 1723333776 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878404 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333776 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878174 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324510 | 1723333776 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878175 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324510 | 1723333776 | 991 | 2115068452192199 | 1 | 7.5946080672893E+15 | 1715583600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878532 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333776 | 991 | 782487127329479 | 2 | 7.9696177363927E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911897950331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079238 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448074110_812514854154878_4335180773034768930_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jbg7Gs8xjwYQ7kNvgGJ5WPf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkIUNFuRWZqGf-NdcAmoh80lBHHJAL8HviZNZ6vjcVcQ&oe=6671608F | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448089479_1189779992454765_7177133521485997348_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1tawz1hINMQ7kNvgFaeDa8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAWCUeGDuESGsLAMIemohcBHPfskukfcaDNu3RDJDs2DA&oe=66716942 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878551 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333776 | 991 | 825615479024726 | 2 | 1.1781995100027E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234650910109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897598 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448059730_2251535568520726_6214017344032506490_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2HZSBM3P3SwQ7kNvgHk62tr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD1qUeTvgOs8yBZcdJMp4aEQA4hbi0RpF-MwNKnvCNfWA&oe=667160C3 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448038333_482447470861530_4988120967478006976_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R8jomYRD8PEQ7kNvgHxi7v3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCIbgmAuqoUxSxyXiKwCNVPywTZkWOffObMGVLogI7blg&oe=6671533D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878560 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333776 | 991 | 839631291351453 | 3 | 8.3995972934013E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179844320571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075856 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448139103_431850469811858_7419897926898010019_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gsYw5oDb4CkQ7kNvgELG2yl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGHszxHLfivHYfyU155oY10ICcKTEq7rrro0-As76RMw&oe=66716AA8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447903878_1241634477205475_4447235313607443964_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCZSXtSAd-cQ7kNvgGhMt6k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA3mgS4ycGeLTFg3PJibdSb5pTAFeScbFjmNHKWK6pehQ&oe=667164F2 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878578 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333776 | 991 | 974124830823201 | 2 | 4.5396781727711E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180198670571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076274 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448176757_2186363145061531_7788707502123814819_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Dca_J_lMPIEQ7kNvgE1aiGa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCj8ntOkmOu8nQXnN-rYtM7fuCVTKF5Kp0RN0hD0TrXYA&oe=66715D0E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448173359_418114684383341_4919265723086645679_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2V3dB3dwqpwQ7kNvgGnOnBi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCtEOVwFXiTllmgPS1gpszGbFfvzWjWLnT_qe2kKqS_eg&oe=66717813 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878592 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333777 | 991 | 989299502832001 | 1 | 8.0290827193783E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266010080109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn More | NONE | dco | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075188 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448230247_839793808003318_6007639495240503049_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tUeNH4gGHBAQ7kNvgEPNxOe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBiuwke_KJk7UI_rrkoX6hiKof2pWo47sCJcYtbBCXzow&oe=66714739 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447822696_422773000724260_5981171645027901992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WCH0rIiqchQQ7kNvgGcu7kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5KnlbyQGl4p7Z3D0N5U4IzpxlAXHcYaShhDdtzqUv0g&oe=667146D4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878602 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333777 | 991 | 995603182143908 | 3 | 7.9930096233295E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511708890227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079601 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448083795_964832698469466_6572872351228594297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dkPWJ3747PYQ7kNvgGoFia0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCwG6qj8kVe-lXgFhVZ22bjYFZk-ziIlE1qnY-TSucGqw&oe=66716B92 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204950_865166398763944_8910318372865903870_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ggf3pvVXUesQ7kNvgEHy4bB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAYG19KLGblkhvOL6qTdAzj9jeEQ4ifPqX6byhpoG0kA&oe=66716F7F | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878624 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333777 | 991 | 1167623984419669 | 2 | 9.7379921089476E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146762760571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897288 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447889272_1136707190710840_5590548007345698499_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4O56EaxzRE8Q7kNvgFxMwFL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsSHrIGECX_yuEx-JKCrtt2SP-UmqKCQL6BaBgIA_TPA&oe=66716898 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441904932_824978106217871_2911521718255594868_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-KL3yofe9gQ7kNvgFIYstD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDnhHciNHjduyQ-pehfCbmyF3M3H4ik_HqkRS6KMm9LUw&oe=66717085 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878631 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333777 | 991 | 1305427947509219 | 1 | 1.8968930873902E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223887630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255699 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448174423_797491462484178_6609463148606296698_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TiStr6lYVEYQ7kNvgFxEbYa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUlZMPCV-EpT7oISWPHJR_8JJHb9n-RQ108SU4HYIeHw&oe=6671667A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448181920_2178984599126069_1422730529286165911_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wgxTUmsCyc4Q7kNvgG4HQGN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC7_lvuJUYk2EHhi2ptGdOURsH4AKfoXLYPxplo8TjqdQ&oe=66714501 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878550 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333777 | 991 | 821987339510654 | 2 | 1.0088356507546E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266569840109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075975 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448177504_317119848104751_3029328078071322809_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=crBkzK8ZWJgQ7kNvgGhLKLG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAni3sVZUnPs4vgj-SvJediLcbybM5aEZRvS6y2Y3JSxg&oe=66716783 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448176670_982344506782548_2840842076185761024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7rFLCFnXroMQ7kNvgFt7leo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCh08CPCIApHOTDCUWil8xHQXhtavQKcdJ1-g4_FbA3Cw&oe=6671606F | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878615 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333777 | 991 | 1127060018520830 | 1 | 4.9035383347705E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511501290227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079190 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448164430_475854311641759_2205269916067278042_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uk9NxMwN9oUQ7kNvgHGfYg6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA_eA1QuacEw1hxQTZyBiARVtWoJ3Hp3s4l3lO45LQQQw&oe=66714412 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448165438_1105116020788937_6965708558071807560_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=52-VlhBGzr0Q7kNvgEkWdrb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDtI_TRCjsAYtH3M6om7NTTdaEnaDx42IbS7Zgi07iCyQ&oe=66714E77 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878244 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324521 | 1723333777 | 991 | 1132921891311549 | 1 | 1.516661042538E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137895286077070 | 0 | FormFree | 120210318338300181 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | Your home’s an asset to your family’s future! | {{product.description}} | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formfree.passportwallet | 1718298478 | 1.3789528607707E+14 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448333962_7316782078425995_807916196007425384_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7-KGwfr_a-8Q7kNvgF6ijdl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6DRgzJL790f9wByUH5_zpuASXD5YCOrg74IG8hUBK_g&oe=6671614A | person_profile | 0 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448277897_814091200827084_867931813644973329_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qi8WLVZ0qpAQ7kNvgE7ZMja&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBq9inn_hyTPJnX3F8BGwJWvhN2BzNonyIybg_k2u_xJg&oe=667154AA | 0 | 3 | Easy, fast, and secure. Download the PassportWallet® app, connect your deposit account data, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! | Easy, fast, and secure! Download the PassportWallet® app, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! Download PassportWallet® now! | FormFree | 318 | https://facebook.com/FormFree1 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878517 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/6/25, 4:12 PM | 1718324569 | 1749244362 | 991 | 523525370002406 | 2 | 4.9342282970548E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511773920227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079748 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447968318_845625144280580_8201159863242611965_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KFIh7jBBORIQ7kNvgFYX4XO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCFHkd9lf0O3IDGg_1pfSQEaF_6EbFKEw742yGcUaXR1Q&oe=66714E8A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448228709_3591594194504549_9208449805963955337_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yVzcXaRmhrAQ7kNvgGRayYo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBMw1QrAFzfzmupOQcRrofxNPv8PaiuyK71eS-rKvSXtA&oe=66715E02 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878492 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 451667577509306 | 2 | 8.2880031577724E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 277559608784516 | 0 | Kiisda | 120208990229390262 | 567171-13.myshopify.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Learn more & Join our group | 4.8 ⭐️rated by 25,000+ traders | https://567171-13.myshopify.com/ | 1718281348 | 2.7755960878452E+14 | Kiisda | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448225369_7297648997016908_5721500709224502318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MXXVwsTKoh8Q7kNvgEQlEx9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYByF1fIN57GSN2dyV6YEr5F8L2egKmkLj4Qt4pSLsSLtQ&oe=66715DB8 | person_profile | 0 | Kiisda | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448347390_1958768357895705_3095046693323627316_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fof8nLOv8DQQ7kNvgF9oCyQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAP025bkuUigc9d38g0-GD3S2CpTH02fvnbTTRjzk4Gqg&oe=667142D6 | 0 | 3 | In trading, you learn by incurring losses which can be discouraging. But if you stick with it long enough, your losses are covered by one single trade. It’s not for the week but definitely for those who want time, location and financial freedom.<br /> <br /> If you want to learn to trade so you can quit your 9 to 5, send me a DM.<br /> <br /> ❤️Join my WhatsApp group, and I'll teach you how to do it for free. Message my group assistants, and you'll receive a surprise.🎁 | Kiisda | 3 | https://facebook.com/61560304152553 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878603 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333778 | 991 | 998123048627801 | 1 | 1.1563360656881E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511509950227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079197 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448177108_387032687104012_95845267785070904_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vC8Nql82F5sQ7kNvgF8iCIy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDpm3DKDVD6pzqEDUdZzJIdeC4rGCOYADxiZAsE2HyvNw&oe=6671740A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448177973_984758233040344_6599378012126771287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9dCRYOXLeiUQ7kNvgFoZyI8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC2q0MzrWvpejs3OUyHfsParMP5_pu26kR0rb54arVhyw&oe=66715455 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878482 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 435810692639536 | 2 | 7.8017820758513E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511673030227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079516 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448072386_428256646689137_6594531638000052503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=utlNn-UWvC0Q7kNvgFIy5fG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAkj6rM7RqDoQvl7yhTEQZQzRbFhKS2nxlAvVYA0t14VA&oe=66715BE5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448045531_1821715438315067_2758473459604445452_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a38mTeaCok8Q7kNvgE7Wq0G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-ZhVtmiu5eGVW1XCB2u4R-NPinYgUlA7pxWTZIASRDA&oe=66714F21 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878459 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 370031058987284 | 3 | 4.9222485981873E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179831530571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075846 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448175593_1662951717807627_5204867854847629003_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e8VyMad5J2wQ7kNvgHAk4Za&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCx05nP73TOvrzlk3QeQNZ-tzynrzFAML_hqdtfcBXJ0Q&oe=66715202 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448165808_356048087144783_8787948312427729222_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UGYcpygTa0MQ7kNvgEIXLhG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDFIYQxhYw8uuiknCmKIFoHDe4c289RtYSbsoSgfXN4KQ&oe=66716564 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878458 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 365595859469078 | 2 | 3.6836989685441E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180211130571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076348 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448021924_475228881684349_6976657984274209111_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JVoMtmhUOwoQ7kNvgE2tu3V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCFQU3-2-v7cNJXtFX2KM-5ORrFv_v-em7eOSsDamgjhg&oe=667167E4 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448020016_842439690749897_3720929561181828727_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xgoYEPmUWgoQ7kNvgGLz5Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB6sNKWHIGqRn1JjyTeL8XQFo4vZF7WsMlAU-dXZ_3maw&oe=66717482 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878506 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 484818604112585 | 1 | 8.2432661490198E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180058180571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076094 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448197083_3782314128672066_3337285216301783352_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X1gyamcs19kQ7kNvgHuRtME&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCa_OfNQNwhxNRWFfY_PiKBYRQYLlKbR80bTbNMRteHXA&oe=667163F2 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448163831_1809107622910394_6440180188948929222_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KC9Z5ikkarkQ7kNvgHvohKa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwYIOrN5mBbwzFuWWRAEPsOc3qRqYsdp2Q06NPHPrYzA&oe=667169C9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878554 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333778 | 991 | 831128318473304 | 1 | 8.5588183638359E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511521800227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079213 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448203891_1851117255356348_8797509520741879373_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J3nEHF8AQm4Q7kNvgHgOqFX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAOvnqfKJD0QR6o1zPg7WomynLKnNRhie8HRYdAi7mR0g&oe=6671437C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448083751_425750223614292_6946075805056513693_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uxZrn-maS1wQ7kNvgHL_Oil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArSckJpnq-jVl1TLZu4s8tK9PP5v6nrUZWZAbjy7iqtw&oe=66715147 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878567 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333778 | 991 | 873171301496444 | 2 | 4.271482735472E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911829580331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079076 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428682646_7465690190204342_3852061372260208216_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VO8nQCR3nVsQ7kNvgEjOvTK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAEKFGiNLa1jmGnt0AvBfBAspY0xlrbMePSz6OelzWdiQ&oe=66717518 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447994125_1472405666701497_1555747230835970454_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rRBAhWk8vXUQ7kNvgHSEQMr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDlViubQ9TxzByI7vuY1sdprWGS_fiELh2gyVV5N7t2tQ&oe=66716FC6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878455 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333778 | 991 | 355768370506302 | 4 | 8.2697612557827E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180132710571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076170 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448201643_2872398986240404_6221215268505135246_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z8mxzoAX-doQ7kNvgEKbTR4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBD3HjVzYMvq7Pp9DaPzrulSrSMTolhrVz4bZS7OSgNCw&oe=66716396 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448206286_830187008503397_6733034503897057637_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4kuVpaPAKK4Q7kNvgGwsfAS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYANDz2XypatDYsNgNPG77Tzu6oSXM_soTYg5zYdXZJfBQ&oe=66714784 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878321 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324559 | 1723333778 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878322 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878323 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878324 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878325 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878326 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878327 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878328 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324560 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878329 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333779 | 991 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I51ZQw6tjjMQ7kNvgHVlEFm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAz8uuFghWyxdVUVzWJTJZ12SFxQquFqZhl8ybQHXCXQA&oe=66716C8E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dD5Q5ZpVSjkQ7kNvgH3lgkM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMin1hF-dufiACja8zD7K4VqzNcV8kCnh9A7euog2PHw&oe=66715F54 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878330 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333779 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878331 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333779 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878332 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333779 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878333 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333779 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878334 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333780 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878335 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333780 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878336 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333780 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878340 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324562 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878341 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324562 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878342 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324562 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878343 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324562 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878344 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324562 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878345 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324563 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878347 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324563 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878349 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324563 | 1723333780 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878350 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333780 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878351 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878354 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878355 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878357 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878358 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878359 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333781 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878364 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333781 | 991 | 404984015794397 | 2 | 4.0092569606593E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114655308901931 | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 120210640543780771 | whitewater.app.rinsed.co | Get promotions | NONE | dco | Sign Up & Save | Receive offers & more! | https://whitewater.app.rinsed.co/contact_forms/1129?iframe=true | 1710277312 | 1.1465530890193E+14 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431490603_1194048281759124_6958000209644309342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GZMdrmh-XPwQ7kNvgHhEicI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAe68rokf-26TVvGqjcLT3PISdNvjM5wLeLcs9rG_6GQQ&oe=66714FFA | person_profile | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431180391_963407744630388_7627149427553678652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RsVPN0QaRD8Q7kNvgEBPUaR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlwMlZUDOex_OS09qwWdWvIfvEx_NgCTC9l9OXs8Syww&oe=66716684 | 0 | 3 | We are OPEN! Enjoy our washes plus always FREE amenities with every wash! Sign up for a ✨FREE✨ car wash & be the first to know about offers, updates, & more. Don't miss out—stay in the know at #WhiteWaterExpress! | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 26379 | https://facebook.com/Whitewaterexpresscarwash | 0 | GET_PROMOTIONS | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878365 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333781 | 991 | 404984015794397 | 2 | 4.0092569606593E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114655308901931 | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 120210640543780771 | whitewater.app.rinsed.co | Get promotions | NONE | dco | Sign Up & Save | Receive offers & more! | https://whitewater.app.rinsed.co/contact_forms/1129?iframe=true | 1710277312 | 1.1465530890193E+14 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431490603_1194048281759124_6958000209644309342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GZMdrmh-XPwQ7kNvgHhEicI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAe68rokf-26TVvGqjcLT3PISdNvjM5wLeLcs9rG_6GQQ&oe=66714FFA | person_profile | 0 | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431180391_963407744630388_7627149427553678652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RsVPN0QaRD8Q7kNvgEBPUaR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlwMlZUDOex_OS09qwWdWvIfvEx_NgCTC9l9OXs8Syww&oe=66716684 | 0 | 3 | We are OPEN! Enjoy our washes plus always FREE amenities with every wash! Sign up for a ✨FREE✨ car wash & be the first to know about offers, updates, & more. Don't miss out—stay in the know at #WhiteWaterExpress! | WhiteWater Express Car Wash | 26379 | https://facebook.com/Whitewaterexpresscarwash | 0 | GET_PROMOTIONS | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878373 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324565 | 1723333781 | 991 | 428662723410582 | 1 | 4.6322092972541E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 184546378248086 | 0 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | 6593462692740 | learn.goodguyscontracting.com | Get quote | NONE | video | Free Quote Within 24 Hours | https://learn.goodguyscontracting.com/long-island-sm-001?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&adset=longisland&ad=testimonial | 1718031585 | 1.8454637824809E+14 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448205849_2249039788762425_2969994246459852543_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fTBFz3nFrA4Q7kNvgEd-Jzh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAEnByJhADoSaZTpJTPaz7tT0BLEyP3tQdvs7_MrdtmIg&oe=6671703B | person_profile | 0 | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448201789_1476998732903600_4612442292280491855_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b_AhbkVc8qkQ7kNvgEqx6My&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAq_CtHb-8_QLHYB_FP0dMrB_pch6rVZCF_ivw0wH3fZQ&oe=667165BC | 0 | 3 | Looking to design your home the way you want it to be? Fill out the form and get a detailed quote within 24 hours. It’s that simple! | Good Guys Contracting Corp. | 666 | https://facebook.com/GoodGuysContracting | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878388 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333781 | 991 | 249495281582126 | 2 | 1.5905340681784E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117228291694042 | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 120210413309780502 | education.ohio.gov | Learn more | NONE | video | https://education.ohio.gov/KidsEat | 1717692637 | 1.1722829169404E+14 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447667789_3672254246373076_7699077528780593728_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=prwLc78YRwsQ7kNvgETDQVh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYARaX_H4oylonrMds0hjnILG-cXU05orld81He7Flny9A&oe=66716EE9 | person_profile | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447674847_2398130763719611_5903661205671554645_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dNfdNTMoxZEQ7kNvgH9yF6N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCQ8Y4JCTAPzuT23YRQ0iUA_ZGg8atd2o0Qx39eKpTdFg&oe=66714365 | 0 | 3 | With SUN Meals, kids under 18 eat free and no sign-up is needed. Tap to find a location near you. | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 32619 | https://facebook.com/OHEducation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878390 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333782 | 991 | 435092552649815 | 2 | 7.8368759383155E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117228291694042 | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 120210412404970502 | education.ohio.gov | Learn more | NONE | image | Healthy food all summer! | Free meals for kids. | https://education.ohio.gov/KidsEat | 1717691246 | 1.1722829169404E+14 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292247_1138932457312689_3904678435900953360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=skwDR0on4roQ7kNvgEon-YH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYClATj8LWdvKp0OwuVmJogSzQ09c9WWfOY0zGRcp8wU2g&oe=66714617 | person_profile | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447794200_1182345889433717_9010698490697943133_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x9MZ72rQYIQQ7kNvgGcTAs2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCqrZCG_WH4Age7W7fv980ScE2mINvkFaVnq5qB1DMz9g&oe=667146DF | 0 | 3 | Children under 18 eat free and no sign-up is needed. Tap to find a location near you. | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 32619 | https://facebook.com/OHEducation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878411 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333782 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878413 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333782 | 991 | 470583372035082 | 1 | 3.8197767183425E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632365006923 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717543235 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445497599_331476846653602_1331243019490509142_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fQTZ1-eLrycQ7kNvgE9w4S5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDWmVjLHESuBfqMcZGJO4BJ4wXlsEMELab3N5syaR3l9g&oe=66714A81 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445529010_485763860459895_3314488949775364513_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JB7HwrLAau0Q7kNvgEDlS8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAmq_HOf_49J5zoPaPALj6RwH4chvToBjq_Y-q79dyJ8w&oe=66714BD2 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878415 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333782 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878417 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333782 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878424 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333782 | 991 | 817949953605185 | 1 | 7.8461852707145E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 379008545465041 | 0 | 3D Mats USA | 120209223955810711 | 3dmats.info | Order now | NONE | video | Upgrade Your Ride with Our Perfect Fit Floor Liners! | Shop now for a perfect fit! | https://3dmats.info/3yKN6js | 1717580313 | 3.7900854546504E+14 | 3D Mats USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447022815_430865979832335_6142017763091509887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5_ooe0joCEAQ7kNvgFsadHE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBljAfDSebJ9SwEg9QGQO0Z1DBodOh4XqQTLSrLcH99xg&oe=6671651F | person_profile | 0 | 3D Mats USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447261277_3636939819906079_3745931991893560382_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RZKmsUMnOkMQ7kNvgEIJG5g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCd7NdN__e074kJHPAjizLYjselZ-1F5dHNRhks2wHbVw&oe=66715CCF | 0 | 3 | Go anywhere worry-free with our easy-to-clean, waterproof, and non-slip rubber surface layer. Designed for the adventurous spirit! <br /> <br /> Plus, MAXpider® technology keeps your mats secure without damaging your original carpet, ensuring confident and safe drives.<br /> <br /> #DrivingConfidence #CarUpgrade #3DMatsUSA #3DMAXpider #MAXpider #3DMats #AdventureReady #easycleaning | 3D Mats USA | 2128 | https://facebook.com/3DMatsUSA | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877771 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333792 | 991 | 364773666547126 | 3 | 1.4503721990179E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205440160240685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/spray-water-bottle | 1711385222 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434184238_1072920160456235_24173197660041531_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BRxix8Xfy9AQ7kNvgE9WjXT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAALhV2_BzX6x95YD__g59RFDXDburGkIxgM-ilo4LzMA&oe=66715418 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434367076_1410016319635911_4146421580755421988_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aERQW_u-SLwQ7kNvgHaVviK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDHI6FKLfGJCBK6haJU671cuRSuZqecHFKpdn-PlKveoQ&oe=667171AC | 0 | 3 | Sip, spray, and stay refreshed on the move with the stylish 700ml Spray Water Bottle, your ultimate hydration companion! 💦👟 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716102000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877805 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1671007920311071 | 1 | 9.3464630508208E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123761154145420 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | 120209663935420097 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Barry Ray Zeigler Jr | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/cj8IWl/33836 | 1717788354 | 1.2376115414542E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447975566_471498685402148_1561554707463263470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2gtX0Clf93gQ7kNvgHOXhAv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBnowtssBpCwTXI7q-4hbdOYB5A9tGL6wv9hkFmk5YlrA&oe=66715AE0 | person_profile | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447896451_1003962354489711_1403307127827073074_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_rGPeMrPAaYQ7kNvgFlmnkb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCNEpp-wtDs12KSnTxRDgjHRhBnK9AjjdQgfUxvZgyJtw&oe=667171EA | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 19966! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - BAL | 14 | https://facebook.com/spherebuilderbal | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877920 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877924 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877929 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877932 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877936 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877940 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878024 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878392 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1179580680149281 | 2 | 7.5821343185067E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117228291694042 | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 120210413306500502 | education.ohio.gov | Learn more | NONE | image | https://education.ohio.gov/KidsEat | 1717692669 | 1.1722829169404E+14 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448003885_3179934802137934_2871442171805881613_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v8ATF9_zQPsQ7kNvgEvApXm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBOkJTMNw0rco689DKiuR0e31LpJ-MhH0rrc3bT8pbgdQ&oe=66716AB1 | person_profile | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447954083_515219867497866_7307542700826327223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eqIO2L28jp0Q7kNvgE-iQ0F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBMXdPiUmv-JVMWQztyTXVZAtKcjJ1npVHA3ROeqxI5yw&oe=667146F3 | 0 | 3 | With SUN Meals, kids under 18 eat free and no sign-up is needed. Tap to find a location near you. | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 32619 | https://facebook.com/OHEducation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878093 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333792 | 991 | 1192109398592306 | 1 | 4.0292955941254E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212168974220747 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717848761 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447489360_1570538763510112_7450994158117535812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sG-1DGY2qhoQ7kNvgGQgQu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAw2vRCmrjqFiic8gi2mVsIqGVzswZz95cGfNlAYR3zWQ&oe=66715F4C | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447282104_397151349972868_7799700873941453060_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NfPJqdj_fN4Q7kNvgHDfOhz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaCWj8ONw-orF3tmXvRcr-HLk6SdZXUEfnsIDGeIAx1A&oe=66716D02 | 0 | 3 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717916400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878184 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324512 | 1723333792 | 991 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878253 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324523 | 1723333792 | 991 | 742150917985115 | 1 | 4.2681985325411E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896974260568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Buy 3 get 1 free | Hot summer sale💗 | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433181601_1778028822678987_3414030142818025079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wJvbEYgP7sMQ7kNvgGZ5aGy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCrW3nenmUqDxEpGvCvH5efPxB-UB9LNkjQB_alGbDCGw&oe=6671756B | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434295328_1395442878010923_6627657879523415574_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IRda6Bqw7VMQ7kNvgHrCc67&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCGMeFfT0mzgUiwcAHyvqrv6zjXGoXPFWZLOoKGxlfUAw&oe=66716007 | 0 | 3 | Breathable and close-fitting @ZASUWA😆 | Zasusportswear | 1825 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878383 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333792 | 991 | 827458289437642 | 3 | 1.1910214187658E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999699020151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772288 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447292533_428798850112084_9152212732066815593_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=muiG95PaUBcQ7kNvgHpW6Sh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYALlLtraZha0wm7-Pt9Q6TDofORhpwmGgLdC6bmt1cKSQ&oe=66714C6B | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272694_1144526290002089_3361662667511673962_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9U4TaEUkLTkQ7kNvgEgmlM4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBX1cjLiaok30xzNFYMmczzV4pgfrgSwJoLMSmDszOs3g&oe=667174D2 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT1ZO0yHZcbiimd_y-M_a_-z5gECyumIiK2usRC7jmV4ha2N2cHcFRC2StblmJqWXUl_uQ8bSs6MpqN4cyCX6h-Dy50lNKgtuRllKeJb78dJdmfM54F7e4qwBmzsO8N986Su0RcGEz0iZQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878414 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333792 | 991 | 850877870251971 | 1 | 2.3840675484323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193421370621 | 0 | Tortuga | 6632363826123 | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/ | Order Now | NONE | dco | Wirecutter Pick! | Fly through security and skip baggage claim. | https://www.tortugabackpacks.com/products/travel-backpack-40l?utm_source={{ad.id}}&utm_medium={{site_source_name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{adset.id}} | 1717542933 | 193421370621 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228679_992958515789280_8162423315952105171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SP4ZjQsx0Q8Q7kNvgENGPHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUwEhuXvu6jls64yso7O9laQULzrvgxCppvHbMnCC9LA&oe=66717496 | person_profile | 0 | Tortuga | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447199929_477322531419242_5013147469472458288_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bx85d2z6zQQQ7kNvgGZiexs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCwbNt-DThrGHsV_xzfPdC7nRT_HJY5w0co11j55GJvDg&oe=667147F6 | 0 | 3 | The Travel Backpack Pro 40L packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack. | Tortuga | 9182 | https://facebook.com/tortugabackpacks | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878426 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333792 | 991 | 800645708449071 | 1 | 1.534578380812E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 206936512502643 | 0 | Storynest.ai | 120208640080000192 | storynest.ai | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Build engaging stories with ease. | 👉 | https://storynest.ai/ | 1717075158 | 2.0693651250264E+14 | Storynest.ai | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446951784_736845618411771_819862033412380130_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nc3ENs3GFQQQ7kNvgE_Q5nB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAZYPPrByW6TQcs3jhXN6fcSPAMX0l5PtHyNYZMOf_4Rg&oe=66715917 | person_profile | 0 | Storynest.ai | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185232_310685228760524_188128712740043287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8XS2yK9Hl5UQ7kNvgHmTQqO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJya83O5z2i9trGX0OEnS5l_D4tP2MmzbvYEecej2wGg&oe=66714F37 | 0 | 3 | 👉 | Storynest.ai | 32 | https://facebook.com/61555527654867 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878431 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333792 | 991 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMvLeiWidnYQ7kNvgHVIXc2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTqEoMONLQ58KqHLTWdnnE3avinbNzVOyON_PSFqvBAA&oe=66714BC3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nzl_Rbdu6k4Q7kNvgFFZp5C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCo3sPkVqcF4L9jIfD5aSqc-nDkmYuazSI8AWq8Q-VTCQ&oe=66716068 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878450 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333792 | 991 | 341203908783259 | 1 | 7.6414280920604E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234658790109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897630 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447786528_1389064098454971_4831252469306941402_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kGYDnHNEux0Q7kNvgEx2eLp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTaDwoVcj5oXfjs0qJ3MZiDPDZreUUyAWs3XuT9KpaoA&oe=667146FC | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448024122_481543867593481_1750157592515090689_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wA3l4k883AsQ7kNvgHpg9Zs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBeGIrEbnnBbyevcd52k5_vOwGnnXCzaipPEQ-UK14q1g&oe=66714D85 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878467 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333793 | 991 | 414418467957292 | 2 | 1.5792693529317E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223930380571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255740 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448045489_999595241726832_9139850433870147069_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0U3hokpN42cQ7kNvgEfMhtj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAz2K9zGfhMln98SouulGhj1jiAMJa-MTc5JGQ8nhk8JA&oe=66714FCE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448262203_855829476385640_9088789731280243369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x_nICLUzoHEQ7kNvgGIvyLV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCLT6vZintNkC5FdPQeTOwA41FmW3NXcNKP_7a5Y22V3A&oe=667147E9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878478 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333793 | 991 | 7882828991738951 | 1 | 1.0436592040186E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137895286077070 | 0 | FormFree | 120210318336960181 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | A dream home for you and the one you love! | {{product.description}} | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formfree.passportwallet | 1718298555 | 1.3789528607707E+14 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448169942_433325539501099_6944452449807734176_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_cXDwV1hKssQ7kNvgE0lOvd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAvhI5lmsLLVwUUOqUFKA3jOD7fvhu9J9NH8SAwiH4bFA&oe=66715648 | person_profile | 0 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448263663_1858560824568252_4441540486321369533_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YTuWm4aQwWgQ7kNvgEc1W5w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCjMTHIg_3MniiHWwTOdeQ1SfBytDsYt0akIlqC8weqig&oe=66715488 | 0 | 3 | Easy, fast, and secure. Download the PassportWallet® app, connect your deposit account data, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! Download PassportWallet® now! | FormFree | 318 | https://facebook.com/FormFree1 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878491 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333793 | 991 | 450783790898509 | 1 | 3.787407358147E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120209974689960255 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ✨Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=663053222496059&jump=1 | 1718085773 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448095609_1158016495568635_4810503635257526507_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ScACWZpVd9AQ7kNvgFaI5EB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDS0LFwiSePlr1ux7GhBMqi2yR-ncOFqfX-xGaUxt8WUg&oe=667158A4 | person_profile | 0 | 暢讀熱劇 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448025759_487017727097177_8014637012967278635_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L7atOnUyGqkQ7kNvgH9Yh8H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDy9NBqybc8tRZwFiJP3MUQj1mF1m_XBcLq46HiLePXbA&oe=66716FAB | 0 | 3 | Un pequeño fragmento me atrajo y encontré que la serie completa es más impresionante. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878497 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333793 | 991 | 476987791661570 | 2 | 7.6468087820395E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180133370571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076180 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448195169_1191052878720738_2961504414927622892_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XAmBggxU-IcQ7kNvgFgrQxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDXSj15gvyDRioyLMrY7jGec7sscHJOHJf_ZpkGqLz1_g&oe=66715029 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448100798_764229689128671_4135128064753216107_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4rJRIpp-Ny8Q7kNvgGJRja4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDow2zaD_XDa28ih-WSCYJ5tDVox8EJSowJkED07XVS8Q&oe=66717244 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878516 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/9/25, 1:48 AM | 1718324569 | 1749451689 | 991 | 514941450923214 | 1 | 4.8061638113714E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208224070900571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255868 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448111234_1898073587328674_3946975735562410458_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uMDLB69Z6ukQ7kNvgEeD8Jo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDqJjpHj-lB1e-98of7db06ZF6iSdVd-sFF2vUWkDVH5A&oe=66715EF0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448091683_1721260825288222_3163872948196696329_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YOwTz5hX1SoQ7kNvgHY88Cm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB8-zq_UJ_uxDyN9Y3b4aav9NJoFKksxNOU_zwqfWzhag&oe=6671685E | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878549 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333793 | 991 | 2266022253750700 | 1 | 3.3078994320704E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111325076934686 | 0 | FreeForm Chiropractic Coppell | 120211395005240315 | fb.me | Book now | NONE | image | Book an Appointment! 🎉 | http://fb.me/ | 1718300846 | 1.1132507693469E+14 | FreeForm Chiropractic Coppell | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448436119_977699597012385_894306041212177158_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eaE8qDPXTVEQ7kNvgHn-f17&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA0vKW4cPf3u9brqVfnaCiUhvnVsINIEUOranJ67t0nQA&oe=6671436A | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Nevarez | FreeForm Chiropractic Coppell | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448381978_7697824033586577_2704885088145928967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1rWinFQ3B9wQ7kNvgFKcleo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAKw42nT-UUa2Lqb7J_XUu4jbIxrPmRyO2ODox7Isfqdw&oe=66715E69 | 0 | 3 | Hey Coppell, 👋 I’m Dr. Nevarez and I want to show you why Chiropractic care is so important to maintain optimal health!<br /> <br /> Our $37 FormChecks include:<br /> 💎 Doctor Consult<br /> 💎 Digital X-rays <br /> 💎 Postural Analysis <br /> 💎 Spinal Exam<br /> 💎 Report of Findings <br /> <br /> Get one NOW by clicking {Book Now}! | FreeForm Chiropractic Coppell | 559 | https://facebook.com/ZeusChiropractic | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878561 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333793 | 991 | 845310750260426 | 2 | 3.6700158599318E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234660640109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897630 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447843093_420187384249729_3933579338125177379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rg8pc7wJ_WUQ7kNvgFUUngi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYACsOBj5PORkxN3pGFEMcfxMrN3cmCzVOg5KWcysDg2Gg&oe=66715112 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447968625_2392997097577184_7610244431470439844_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EccAnY-D8J8Q7kNvgEmTgOk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-ZNArFSe_jJsj4Dm7fldwSajuxyjf8-X8rGsTOsOdhw&oe=667169B6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878585 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333793 | 991 | 983516473249598 | 1 | 1.8916783412945E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223990800571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255795 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447965627_1711446739661937_4397783370691743023_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=81ZbHYOgTGcQ7kNvgHlNp1j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYADBUq8OZgSj0jV-AFBDqbQatX6kRbrjqDSOVmUR6X4ig&oe=66716547 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448239247_1143743570079488_3373209432064433613_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ah9ZQkCoVA4Q7kNvgFgtskZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDnzIvPrqCN_hKrFH5DpWiq-MiZoT-fzAQkav_ISF4cew&oe=667177A4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878591 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333793 | 991 | 989299502832001 | 1 | 8.0290827193783E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266010080109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn More | NONE | dco | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075188 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448230247_839793808003318_6007639495240503049_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tUeNH4gGHBAQ7kNvgEPNxOe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBiuwke_KJk7UI_rrkoX6hiKof2pWo47sCJcYtbBCXzow&oe=66714739 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447822696_422773000724260_5981171645027901992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WCH0rIiqchQQ7kNvgGcu7kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5KnlbyQGl4p7Z3D0N5U4IzpxlAXHcYaShhDdtzqUv0g&oe=667146D4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife... ===== "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words." I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous. Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home. Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble. Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed. A girl can hope. Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead. Forgive me, Father. Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with. My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left. I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard. I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five. He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women. Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is. Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister. But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy. I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me. Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom." Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair. Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers. Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him. Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business. Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs. He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance. The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance. I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place. My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin. Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself. As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice. I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat. Mother of God. The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction. Crap! My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins. I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office. NoNoNoNoNo! "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please." I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop. His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body." With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag. Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me. Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body. Crap. Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat. His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky. "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains. I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise." Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more. The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach. Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want. Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr. Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him. "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss. If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out. Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria." He knows my name? Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing. Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral." The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still. When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him. If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist. When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me. Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit. Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw. My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me. Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw." A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know." What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD! When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch. My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth. Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open. Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger. Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!" I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo." "What?" Giorgio gasps. I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo. "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me. A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man. Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone." Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother." Huh? Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?" Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now." Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky. I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry." With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother." "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?" He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine." More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?" He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano." When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here." I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch. Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead. Dear God. That was intense. I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind. Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio. A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again. I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo. God, the man is intense. And handsome. And freaking scary. Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering. He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it. Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt. My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back. Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die. Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world. Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it. My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself. He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money. "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment. The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory. Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says. When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him. No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale. "What is his tab standing at?" I ask. I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life. "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head. Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon." "Yes, you will," I say. "Today." His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick." With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling, "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker. His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money." I've heard that before. Usually, right before I kill someone. But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister. Vittoria Romano. I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman. I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me. I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will. I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife. Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster. "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention. The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged. Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age." "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her." Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?" Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir." Why wait until she's twenty-five? I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother. Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing." I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough. Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?" For now. I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave. As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano." "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?" "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long." Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother." I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions. I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business. My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York. I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age. F**k, has it already been fifteen years? Time flies when you're making money. No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir. The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy. Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos. At least she's f**king Sicilian. I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law. My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair. She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before. My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls. The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman. Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts. I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention. The woman is f**king beautiful. "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention. I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket. Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club." Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes. Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov Tori "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house. My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence. Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain. My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side. My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping. The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face. "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks." Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips. I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain. It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist. Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you." The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room. Bastard. Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom. Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt. Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away. Just two more years... ** Angelo For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family. But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me. I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact. She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt. I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal. It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars. She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life. What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence. The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods. I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it. It f**king infuriates me. Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is. When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting. "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny. "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me." "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine. During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me. Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency. There's still no urgency. But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up. I'll have something no other man has touched. The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio. I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him. When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order. Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet. I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul. I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive. After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke. It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked. Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror. I could kill him and just take Vittoria. My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you." Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?" I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do." "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away." Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?" His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage." My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires. "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear. Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office. When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers. My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence. Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me. Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me? No. Not one bit. In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire. Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts. Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine. ... ==== Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo. What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878607 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333793 | 991 | 1020876293081809 | 2 | 4.7487082166208E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146854350571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897597 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447276854_985776352762006_9162280686244628659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2tlIQMq3sdsQ7kNvgHVIX6F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDv1otwbEUaBwJ2n-WE6NbCI265eBXvjDxlL0DIjcvWgg&oe=66716F57 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448017714_304076569443351_5808155188539265659_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yMp9btyIFTUQ7kNvgH0spoQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjPkjkogXxm6ICCsoz9XYbkDsKrnwpksmEguzKQymCxQ&oe=667178F6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878610 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333793 | 991 | 1105796113831840 | 1 | 9.6913475854784E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223946940571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255764 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448244396_788493120057051_3695363804645342132_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlivrHgMRloQ7kNvgEL3Vqh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA303urWxFA4C_eL-XGjuGn66E9SD7u4fdt8coXD4JD0A&oe=66715220 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448335571_1366235914057224_8742646562855487136_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=__ykVlXA-iAQ7kNvgEK1oso&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAVqupc73jGCEbRKqab-LZfWWevT7h6UxNZaR2phpYI2w&oe=667162E0 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878614 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/7/25, 5:23 AM | 1718324571 | 1749291785 | 991 | 1126231318723431 | 1 | 1.1896522055561E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146766760571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897289 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447833251_444321381742475_521524587520228157_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AN3DiNN0cbQQ7kNvgFV_kKc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBrjZB5Yuc1eT0tzBZFnLSZP6DVFwP3bD3dE9OMZ13gjQ&oe=6671527F | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447627409_776816511227692_4152639186931829820_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sy_WLfgbvxUQ7kNvgEvXXaz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCcvQIeSApohtXfnLaW3kPvzMkjEoaPu8V1V5bGX_rlUg&oe=667169BE | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878625 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333794 | 991 | 1168868217760064 | 2 | 1.0199371398044E+15 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146796550571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897353 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447281635_854978106460204_3929385368468593706_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RZVXSETCqnEQ7kNvgEp1qi1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYByE5PDlagdzz5sjt9NRKq76rm8AO0oj2Kozq-oFYJ0cg&oe=66714DE8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447631018_422585764017961_7388105328806541112_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=reQPvNwa8KEQ7kNvgF9Ys5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMbavDqjl9yY6JLYTNySAjWybZb5HaHfkbsSTFnk156A&oe=66716E92 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878629 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333794 | 991 | 1236057930710411 | 1 | 3.9373880344213E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267101850109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076577 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448109424_356077573822525_379145135248764281_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TVX8Hc-IXEEQ7kNvgHPEWEi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlvGN6aZAvpw5grX-Km5ehjbfh8p0zq35VQhNU9xNasA&oe=66717707 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448111338_3806812092972414_124502988923996574_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k_RkWOdGZNUQ7kNvgGhnq5G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBxphVplGzK-0jF01o5Y9l-QL3uCPa4QRdjeGXFopTqpA&oe=667147A7 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878632 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333794 | 991 | 1386518875376633 | 1 | 1.391360021542E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266551010109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075961 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448104449_380939064975660_7260831545998057516_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hmy-tERBpIIQ7kNvgFNXdJw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCn35b3mg6T2ZLMe6SwVVKY7z0fJ-tX2Vf4W-bxpcceuw&oe=6671531E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447846264_2326633171062025_6420420286849377982_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R6KPnVvcjXcQ7kNvgEGcP6Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC4ov4x3TsO5vJYY6YcWRVmuQ2oL0X_2Qxeaa96cOzjvw&oe=66716DD9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878548 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/4/25, 8:02 AM | 1718324569 | 1749042179 | 991 | 820294603364298 | 2 | 3.8084094494442E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180050450571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076093 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448238372_986035419585058_4564446242251038621_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4L1HToiOWNcQ7kNvgENgv3_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDb8xsLOFBs6n5WsHnMkHYxrqFZrcbY9Hwux4K7y0pIFA&oe=66715DAD | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448175550_863949295565296_8515258109123398000_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FbYS3TVNWB8Q7kNvgFmeFKj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMkMimdU-nOqmYQv8MWKaHC-I7P1wZTLuoH5zCIyMBHw&oe=667159D1 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878531 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333794 | 991 | 779630257623410 | 2 | 1.589440531625E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511736190227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079667 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448242654_1173115643828772_8235870608516382721_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uKwXy7zF2SQQ7kNvgGONXh0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjFFx8YhlrwLVqsbDid7oTddKN3zedT3aBELcdbN8mJQ&oe=66716ECE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448173680_449754684327707_8992926163812323794_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tejcxXOPMIIQ7kNvgH6QpQ-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKO-TCREn2iS5Xq1QtQBfAwAbk1pDIjeibIzz-1kAPNQ&oe=66714C70 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878451 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/6/25, 7:28 PM | 1718324567 | 1749256136 | 991 | 350036577827117 | 2 | 4.4180857880597E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146721620571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897176 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447768684_8004081152955376_1259367148458473135_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iCEYG04g0HwQ7kNvgGUMC2X&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvnW0qM-bjjHmm8oaGZ5ymOSRgD02OG0taCJo6otwEEw&oe=66716CB3 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447753044_966359231564297_2131153377014270997_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v2zgM0pgb3gQ7kNvgERv91U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBOttAwMc1tkdtGh1wopAZ3zMnuFcMTrlwhRVWTnePW2A&oe=66716EEE | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878538 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 9/14/24, 1:20 PM | 1718324569 | 1726338015 | 991 | 791940702687119 | 3 | 7.6880222046524E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266496890109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075889 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204721_362294370199935_963478931790322285_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AYyXXaNwM5gQ7kNvgEaSnwC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAeLAlBLVTA-XZnrY_cfEGKVBACoDSoZmmemo9_uTzChw&oe=667145B5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448196961_323303984162130_6455862113129584591_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9LW6I6PnHGYQ7kNvgH1tglk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCz10UbP949T6pwjiGy9jZu8f4fqJPL065UfclVwtIeSA&oe=66715295 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878507 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333794 | 991 | 488271833764852 | 1 | 1.6345038973748E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146756960571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897281 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447287263_827617792631801_1191539344725494036_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7Udp54-0Dc4Q7kNvgHI2ibu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDjPrR1dhKfKpubFh9IiN_zQAOCc19Wnl9Ii37ybVC6LA&oe=667152D0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447971876_1443008696339714_4455332179720458947_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tfDJGfj9qqEQ7kNvgHkztRE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBlpQed63KOIBqSSBiigcQJRol4b07Zjwe3bb0lwQWECQ&oe=66715A63 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878499 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333794 | 991 | 478137698204162 | 1 | 1.5944194477983E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223923820571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255739 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448049008_993742155479451_8097815448178651762_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nUVQp-4TVbEQ7kNvgHT9avt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDa-s_YtWYvsqz9JSZsOqrfTuaJnUINyrl2uCjFlK4-lQ&oe=66715CAD | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448218226_877980350832656_3988779595428652254_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O4s6rMu7Rp8Q7kNvgHSzuVX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCZTBiv4azjP1wkkRqxuRZAdpniRRBLlbPVUlRH0NUJ-Q&oe=6671469D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878621 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333794 | 991 | 1150060732943237 | 1 | 1.7917266113372E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511525850227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079239 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448205709_842717244375032_951563008286332014_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=33bOCF-76iQQ7kNvgGFvkEJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_PJT5ZLWVk5fcRua6SlLrVITekcKtBkp_WBRpqKzNsQ&oe=66717177 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448161573_1130735848044078_5811374009856542457_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G73Q8JlDUbgQ7kNvgGwTe4V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBEBlgoRRMMXQwSZYYLV99UlyLhrXnQCzcwaFAkZDAIjw&oe=6671540B | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878523 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333794 | 991 | 756989786332065 | 2 | 8.0016569932185E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146782210571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897326 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448071669_2556652027839009_2529995571535536899_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HJNS6YZjatkQ7kNvgGb8gRy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA0ZLL-p2ChtEnPHG_cncPjHCw4Y9mzIYZp1rgrUXKH-Q&oe=66716397 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447903306_437323408934474_8829130643158171816_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VDIfHba5XC0Q7kNvgHiSUGg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA64QPvSuAAc3vuBfpPbZZFy9fWT3kw_J-aLIBAETyQNQ&oe=66716B71 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878558 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 9/4/24, 2:55 AM | 1718324570 | 1725436556 | 991 | 833933931418534 | 1 | 1.1161666094944E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180081390571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076123 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448020807_7524713720973027_3196663659574101246_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KeeWrYxRVtgQ7kNvgG2f-7P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCniKJwrkKROup4VefPgIzt5lWv4gyRu7rT6ITQjmABdA&oe=667179A9 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448189006_1689847868420513_9075583081434815527_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X6IFjLDWMRgQ7kNvgFL7eGl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZdrKYLhcm0HYpFTiFbkBjQDRNt3AifnLYP7QBUbRz2Q&oe=667170F6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878385 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333795 | 991 | 968548124817283 | 3 | 4.8875823016545E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999698880151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772292 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446633068_475956254883003_2791154496798071620_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L-CUugYkmQwQ7kNvgFtXuV3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDQumGmBgGP1sHJISMbedYDehNeqBk24nIF8a3g7V75tg&oe=66716076 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447977678_1168476407500997_6314822834026693815_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8WeljXVKKcgQ7kNvgGp93Sa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDx0p-AmkhY1r_Dp6plJdY-izLkT0mAg5aB4ogLRPve6Q&oe=66717309 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT0eVW5agVbpx16EhAfNsJT87plArTz9yWozGPfjZuMN6LbGsCIdAPNHJEdKwK1MmYEHx8D4xBPQexZnzD165spf0VPGAV8TbcTtWqzWPpM1-SAj8zY_Q2zn3X5qHcxztKpzsPwwzYBJKA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877822 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324465 | 1723333795 | 991 | 989063109520358 | 1 | 9.7705697704554E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559278060084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Discover Effortless Relocations With Us | Choose us for stress-free moves! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588930 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441450794_7441351729289684_4996825761901876544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gqx580w7YTAQ7kNvgGT72EL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPBISBa2anH94iMxljO0Hjcrm09CudHXGmPaUeM94Zwg&oe=6671595D | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440496763_742214424660267_3958153346325376394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ff698nohMA0Q7kNvgHQkash&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPYI6TUjKCW2gez-nTpSyOiio4atmMyY1Y5MjtxC_V0Q&oe=66716C4F | 0 | 3 | Choose us for stress-free moves! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877747 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333795 | 991 | 432915682877820 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 104992632509232 | 0 | HeartlyLove | 120209492981820724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | SolarGuard™ 4 in 1 Bug Zapper - 40% Off Until Midnight | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/solarguard%E2%84%A2-bug-zapper-your-ultimate-shield-against-bugs | 1718170994 | 1.0499263250923E+14 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448224563_308475549000132_821027427116694789_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_aid=0&_nc_ohc=uKBkf-mLrjIQ7kNvgHmJgU4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA9OaZJJ5oOlb31jcjmHMNAO6BYv2uMKNaXdFBwY1H87Q&oe=66715F35 | person_profile | 0 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447891766_983533029728911_5517291637937917024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KTnxqzMZ1S8Q7kNvgHmj5TS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAA7fYL_p8pVT9oxKtNN1d9QhfF455TggMjHxcVp-V6Hw&oe=66714E76 | 0 | 3 | 🦟 Transform your outdoor experience with the Norvure SolarGuard™ Bug Zapper.<br /> <br /> 🔋 Enjoy advanced solar and USB charging with a robust 4000mAh battery for long-lasting protection.<br /> <br /> 💡 Eliminate mosquitoes, flies, and gnats instantly with a 360° UV light and 4200V enhanced voltage.<br /> <br /> 🌟 Multi-functional design serves as a bug zapper, lighting lamp, and dynamic atmosphere light.<br /> <br /> ⚡️ Smart control technology with dusk-to-dawn sensor for hassle-free operation.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | HeartlyLove | 735 | https://facebook.com/100089641703840 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877762 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333795 | 991 | 3770226313262547 | 1 | 9.9751445571263E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 351468854716910 | 0 | Live Free with Laura | 120209562659390323 | www.instagram.com | Send message | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"FORMULA"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Please DM me \"FORMULA\" for more info.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Please DM me \"FORMULA\" for more info.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Please DM me \"FORMULA\" for more info.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ai_generated_icebreaker_toggle_enabled":null,"welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"1015512500144412"} | 1718307334 | 3.5146885471691E+14 | Live Free with Laura | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448187293_947034570534316_7917669275891760266_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Ur2vAjvfAMQ7kNvgFsP6j4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC1deSvS6HoJ3MdpwYJ-C1pUReoql8xtc2eJkEtGtbA6Q&oe=66715082 | person_profile | 0 | Laura | Make Money Online & Digital Marketing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448099325_1047208237024978_2301524767272174359_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XqXz9t2Z8YIQ7kNvgF1QW1V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMRqyiJHt4gNmzBArPIq9r1N9836lZKd1MIZxJwkypeA&oe=66715E92 | 0 | 3 | I WISH I KNEW ABOUT THIS EARLIER👇🏼<br /> <br /> After having my son and taking some time off of digital marketing, I hit a complete standstill in my business<br /> <br /> I was getting frustrated and wondering if things would ever take off again 🥵<br /> <br /> That’s when I found <br /> 🧪THE FORMULA🧪<br /> <br /> This is truly the key 🔑 to automating your business and getting your content out to the exact people that you want! <br /> <br /> 📈Learn how to convert those followers into sales through your DM’s and get your content out to your target audience every single time by using the super secret formula presented in the course!<br /> <br /> ⚡️I guarantee this isn’t anything like what you’ve already seen in any other courses. <br /> <br /> It has already helped out SO many people in this space! <br /> <br /> I am a busy mom and I don’t always have hours on hours to spend here, and the Formula has been tremendously helpful at saving me time! <br /> <br /> ⏰And isn’t more time what we are all truly after anyway?? <br /> <br /> ✅If you are a digital marketer who feels like they are stuck or struggling to get the results they want, comment “FORMULA” and I will send you more information. 🧪<br /> <br /> ✅And follow @livefreewithlaura_ for more on making money from home with digital products. | Live Free with Laura | 0 | https://facebook.com/61560900473772 | 0 | INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877764 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333795 | 991 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4A5U3MFLNL4Q7kNvgGZv4sl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYGgTif9o3-ZyGtapNxes-UgrQ5bC7xlo57GCWk6VZsw&oe=66714885 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m5KTRcrCT0IQ7kNvgE9lGhx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC1c83kaGCUdgRMrScZzi18NyAZwVjjN_R_lGhal1iV9w&oe=66714B69 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1544 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877776 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324463 | 1723333796 | 991 | 730261222590017 | 6 | 7.2548876299288E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439173170685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/massage-hook | 1711383319 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433123906_955377466034851_3980822897028520513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b8mTYMOkjzMQ7kNvgHJxsdL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdbWn5ijHg-IfcN41lIUtDUymF4h19gf04uRIzDKBzNg&oe=66714342 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434281725_25737010635886282_2450402894438612038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=us6Ug4xi1s0Q7kNvgF9eX2M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAL1-8IkujlY5q25N6JQNJR5xbDjmFg54gpVGtWLdlyWQ&oe=6671513C | 0 | 3 | Unwind in comfort with the Massage Hook – Your at-home solution for deep relaxation and pain relief 🌿 | Fit Fusion Hub | 54 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877784 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333796 | 991 | 1111542586591821 | 2 | 3.9518835014886E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 308744682317431 | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | 120210211339460233 | fblp.drama-time.com | Watch More | NONE | dco | Download Now👉👉👉 | https://fblp.drama-time.com/IY6bS7-0530-EN-668636.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1717167732 | 3.0874468231743E+14 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370170_939571347949573_7395819333494214654_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5i9oB4zqj3YQ7kNvgEu4T_e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKUUGPY6zBgf4RxjBuHI43hrM14Tpx9M8RmmGTWCF-vg&oe=6671468D | person_profile | 0 | Amazing dramaapp | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445235337_478825357922824_3831513101680749515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1I6Y9zYWZf8Q7kNvgGcmNUR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzkucwRSC_ML2yjPt_OuX2UlZUKrB78tNQEwR4k6fNRg&oe=667172F8 | 0 | 3 | My Mom is a Big Shot ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | Amazing dramaapp | 25 | https://facebook.com/61559003640620 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1877808 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333796 | 991 | 350640357727110 | 8 | 1.3904187549902E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 128658443861791 | 0 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | 120209527572720214 | loncarlyonjenkins.com | Contact us | NONE | image | Car Wreck? 🚗💥 | NO Attorney FEES until you win | http://loncarlyonjenkins.com/ | 1717515396 | 1.2865844386179E+14 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441903232_1107129833716412_8285839852829622638_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cGq0oO8tw74Q7kNvgGwlZrz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPHoi5JqR3VWho_oj-OxA0ykDBmgnSnt6Zh4GEVFiK3w&oe=667143D7 | person_profile | 0 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442502881_515709644124784_6345964276085961358_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ziihzkTSZAUQ7kNvgFpeOHO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBrNjqlU6BuEcXOAU9FjM0Tl1fkNQPg-ikpmFepK7A10Q&oe=66715D06 | 0 | 3 | Have you been in a car accident? Worried about the cost of legal help? We've got you covered!<br /> <br /> At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, you don't pay a dime out of pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid 💲 if we win your case. ✅ You can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal fight. No upfront costs, no hidden fees – just dedicated legal representation when you need it most.<br /> <br /> Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve! 📞💼<br /> 📞 CALL NOW! 📞 | Loncar Lyon Jenkins | 15216 | https://facebook.com/loncarlyonjenkins | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1717570800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877812 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333796 | 991 | 960031428933388 | 1 | 9.7753446725539E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 465231436915042 | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 120209927926620713 | roundhillpinesresort.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Purely Lake Tahoe | Free parking after 5pm | https://www.roundhillpinesresort.com/ | 1716313112 | 4.6523143691504E+14 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442372518_7500106513408497_181182159695703350_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mWpn9B_sJEsQ7kNvgHYem0-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDX5OoxYDGXKKWRZFoYbVek9wlKsh5_Uc2__-YM-5o2_Q&oe=66714FE6 | person_profile | 0 | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442471244_960745662418080_2551407165487156537_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XkxM4q2vTwsQ7kNvgFoO9e4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCijCx_R_VGb8NN7ikN5c8Vv173iePxX0hOOsK9wnqBqg&oe=667151D6 | 0 | 3 | Casual lakeside dining with an elevated menu on Tahoe’s best sunset beach. Free parking after 5pm. | Round Hill Pines Beach Resort | 6704 | https://facebook.com/roundhillpines | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877816 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324464 | 1723333796 | 991 | 813640966904981 | 1 | 3.7200638203822E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120209559015690084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dependable Moving Solutions | Get in touch now! | https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/ | 1715588544 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtpzyWWgWBkQ7kNvgHWj9i-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbVnnBGLqOnLd_kdX-ge7UZXN2UdztaNDuGrz4PNLr6Q&oe=667153AF | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441571027_1828547217628349_2289319947431957499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6OS809TH6YEQ7kNvgG7Llg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAh2Ny86A56vcgw-fFLk1LGGjG4sSO-S0sUx4z9553sSA&oe=66715A83 | 0 | 3 | Get in touch now! | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877823 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324465 | 1723333796 | 991 | 679771527573816 | 1 | 9.5691207609713E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108164895515 | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | 120208883012670396 | lifecarealliance.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Supporting Independence & Dignity | You can make a difference! | https://www.lifecarealliance.org/beingtherematters/ | 1714765915 | 108164895515 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144986_672527694998886_2515713942064662129_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=55Ppinf8G5AQ7kNvgFPa3d0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKunlRNjxfGgPt3bvC6sPuEHNTCzPDf5tSnEdBhDoe3w&oe=66717877 | person_profile | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413863_1589580615151604_4716376650662036087_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WZvcOikuCeoQ7kNvgEAP4dW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD1S_z-WfqW2ijTIEoIgQrQnFu50SCRWDVCI3rVH3G79w&oe=66717482 | 0 | 3 | Explore the vital services we provide for seniors and those with medical challenges. From Meals on Wheels to our Free Cancer Clinic, Help-at-Home and so much more, Being There Matters. Join the Alliance – donate or volunteer today! | LifeCare Alliance | 4038 | https://facebook.com/LifeCareAlliance | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877834 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333796 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877836 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333796 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877837 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333796 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877840 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333796 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877841 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324468 | 1723333796 | 991 | 345924945175506 | 17 | 4.0432693580309E+14 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211511879180002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715765000 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922042_247479561755579_3821431404594820167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nE-xcpCRFGQQ7kNvgEwc3OL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Sfqj1-Bmlo79921QoKYsYUxgV63eUotlsi5QBaKULA&oe=66717608 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197202_765438095699980_1525197823077953944_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0L5gnt-ND4Q7kNvgEImsLk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDOumG301Ob_-qIpyG4bFNdMjcumtjjv4eJbfsIDSrw6g&oe=66717061 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877957 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333797 | 991 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgGWraiE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB6b1ipvF4_xSDXTi3ZFyOcBWLSYuPHaa2b9TKwpeAoDQ&oe=667166FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Am4a_9PFnA0Q7kNvgGYRR06&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2MTTFKytylGX_qebskN_20HPkXvcKXRWBSp2n5YrkmA&oe=667166F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 534 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877844 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324469 | 1723333797 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877847 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324470 | 1723333797 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877848 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324470 | 1723333797 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877850 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324470 | 1723333797 | 991 | 404621832409719 | 28 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716634519 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sisTEz4NT9EQ7kNvgGk9WO2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC_L2Mg-kFc6Nqj4QNYgyitHuKbfumhY8MKtlsNzFBP9w&oe=6671491D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M3Fsok1nqdgQ7kNvgH5-P08&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNsYSN3f80fw7A63vWqEeXMxV16TIkJc2sPMTQG-rnbg&oe=66715260 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877959 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333797 | 991 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJbpfTkXL1QQ7kNvgGWraiE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB6b1ipvF4_xSDXTi3ZFyOcBWLSYuPHaa2b9TKwpeAoDQ&oe=667166FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Am4a_9PFnA0Q7kNvgGYRR06&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2MTTFKytylGX_qebskN_20HPkXvcKXRWBSp2n5YrkmA&oe=667166F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 534 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877960 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333797 | 991 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-EDV_PIMzUQ7kNvgF8pRUp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6ARNJR34Uq7OlPVif2ci6Eupbmki-tM4rtwV3TL0XQw&oe=667175BB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHV4t4R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAr6a7vswgnDoLHCz_cFlSQJNWa0ACC31G3JxWaT9fgWg&oe=667163EB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877855 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333797 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877856 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333797 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877961 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324479 | 1723333797 | 991 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-EDV_PIMzUQ7kNvgF8pRUp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC6ARNJR34Uq7OlPVif2ci6Eupbmki-tM4rtwV3TL0XQw&oe=667175BB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74tozip3wW4Q7kNvgHV4t4R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAr6a7vswgnDoLHCz_cFlSQJNWa0ACC31G3JxWaT9fgWg&oe=667163EB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877859 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324471 | 1723333797 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877863 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333797 | 991 | 468089762273303 | 1 | 1.6919708815392E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877864 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333798 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877867 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333798 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877873 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333798 | 991 | 785695356970863 | 1 | 1.8811915023045E+15 | 1718002800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120214343181970348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11844&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717762144 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447256994_962585992003167_5083994497026705008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvSiU4eM0HIQ7kNvgEj978f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAXy56YFODK2EnOWzMqhzepsLMiz7uTosZ1sTzZD_o-KA&oe=667161B1 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447590700_1016773316708518_420838429285916977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYgitKO0u2cQ7kNvgFGq4u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBRMwbkwVONIzEqYzBgPWAxoTmyp1Jixw24Ab7iqmKjiA&oe=6671652D | 0 | 3 | The roads were soaked. It had been raining for a whole day in Southbury. Aria Carver's backpack was thrown out of the door by the butler in disdain. "Mr. Kent doesn't want to see you, Ms. Carver. So, I have to say some words in his stead. Your birth parents are in the countryside. Your father's last name is Carver. "The Kent family mistook you for their daughter in the past. But now that Ms. Lily has been found, I hope that you can do what's best for everyone and stop contacting the Kent family." The butler, Alfred Dun, took out a card. "Here's 10,000. Mr. Kent instructed me to give it to you as compensation." "No need." Aria didn't even look at the card as she picked up her backpack. Alfred looked at her in disdain. She didn't want the money? Was she acting tough? She should really think about her circumstances. The Kents had found their real daughter. They wouldn't want a country bumpkin like her anymore. She was an embarrassment. "As you wish, Ms. Carver." Alfred closed the door with a loud bang. Aria paid him no mind. She only took a black backpack when she left the Kent Residence. She stood proud and tall. She left the Kent Residence without taking anything that didn't belong to her. The rain falling on her made her look a little defeated. The people on the second floor saw her and started snickering. They didn't care if she could hear them. "She's finally gone." "I know right? I was so afraid that she might not want to go back to the countryside, and would try to stay with us." Aria didn't respond, but a sneer appeared on her face. Were the Kents ignorant? Yes, they were. Aria chewed on a gummy absentmindedly. She had a head of long and glossy black hair. Her face was a little pale, but it didn't make her look weak. Instead, she looked quite mysterious. … At the same time, the Carver family was having an international meeting at their home in Janovin. Warren Carver sat at the head of the table. He held a cane in his hands and looked really intimidating. "It's been so many years. Is there still no leads on your sister?" He was talking to his six grandsons. The Carver family was the wealthiest in Janovin. The six scions of the family were all very remarkable people. Any single one of them would cause a stir if they went out in the open. At that moment, they all looked saddened. Longing and sorrow filled their eyes. They were the ones that lost their youngest sister back then. She was only a baby when she went missing. She never caused a fuss and was always very adorable. It had been 18 years. They had never stopped looking since. All the leads went cold at a secluded village in the mountains. They had no idea how many times the human traffickers moved their baby sister around. "Grandpa, let's keep looking. We will definitely find her!" Suddenly, a chubby man, Frank Levin, rushed into the room with some documents in his hand. He panted as he said, "Mr. Chairman! Little Ms. Carver has been found!" Warren, who was usually composed, stood up immediately. He was so excited that his hands were shaking. "Where is she? Send someone to pick her up right now!" Frank handed the documents over. "She's in Southbury. We're still looking into her exact location." "Then let's go to Southbury! Get a car ready!" Warren was very excited. … It was evening in Southbury. Aria, who had been kicked out of the Kent Residence, didn't go to the countryside. She waited for the rain to stop before she headed back to the place she was staying at. It was a very insignificant neighborhood. When she was parking her car, someone called out to her, "You're back, Aria." "Yeah. I'm back." Aria smiled. Maria Goode, a fruit vendor, handed her an apple. "I haven't seen you in two weeks. No one else could help me with my arthritis." "Don't forget about me, Aria. My hand always trembles when I'm playing chess." Everyone knew that Aria was a very beloved figure in the Elmer district. Some retired government officials loved to chat with her as she treated their conditions. The place might look plain and simple on the surface, but there was more than met the eye. The person who talked about his hand was Jasper Garland, a former national chess champion. Aria didn't delve into the identities of the other residents. She chose to live in this neighborhood because it was a nice place. Chapter 2 More Than Meets the Eye "I'll offer treatment for everyone at the community square tomorrow." Then, Aria reminded them, "Remember to take the medicine. Don't stay up late to watch soap operas. They won't end so soon." "The Tiara" was all the rage in the Elmer district at that time. All the older men and women were hooked on it. A lot of them looked guilty after Aria said that. "We…We will sleep at 10:00 pm from now on." In the past, no one could have imagined that this group of people would be so obedient to one person. A lot of them had made great contributions to the country. Even their identities were kept a secret. Elmer district's community manager, Joel Hayes, had been hoping that Aria would come back sooner. He could finally breathe a sigh of relief. "Dr. Carver, I have been keeping an eye on your house. I've not allowed anyone to approach your property." "Thanks for the hard work." Aria bowed slightly and handed him an apple. Joel accepted the apple with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. I trust you won't be leaving anytime soon?" A community manager like him could never keep the neighborhood's residents under control. "Yeah. I won't be leaving," Aria said as she took the key. Joel replied joyfully, "That's wonderful! I'll leave you be so you can unpack your stuff. Let me know if you need anything." Aria nodded. She inserted the key and opened the door after Joel left. The lock was very old. It didn't seem like there was anything special about it. But after she undid the first lock, an LCD lock appeared before her. "Confirmation to proceed with iris scan." Aria said casually, "Do it." "Proceeding with iris scan. Please wait." "Iris scan completed. Welcome home, master." It was a very classy computerized voice that hadn't been activated for some time. The metal door opened automatically with a "clack". The house was instantly illuminated. There was a bookshelf that was about six feet tall which was filled with medical books and containers with herbs in them. There was a lot of greenery at the door. Most of them were herbs. All of them were labeled. In the middle of the living room sat a very cool-looking black and red motorcycle. Aria walked over to the kitchen and took a bottle of water from the fridge. She wanted to drink some water and watch some TV. Suddenly, the phone that was charging on her desk rang. It was a custom ringtone. "Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie Carver, wakey wakey, It's time for work! Richie—" Aria took the call when it was about to ring for the third time. "Speak." "Boss, there's a huge job in Southbury. Should we take it?" Aria took a sip of the water. "What's it about?" "The richest man in Janovin is looking for his long-lost granddaughter. They say she's in Southbury. It shouldn't be hard to find her. This job pays a lot." Aria yawned. "Not interested." "Hold on! Please wait, boss! There's another one. The type you like! It's also a huge job!" The person on the other end of the call was very servile. Aria placed her chin on the palm lazily. "Tell me about it." "The York family of Janovin is looking for you. They're offering 10 million for you to treat a patient. "They also said that people who can find you or provide information about you will be rewarded as well. They're so stacked!" "Why are they so generous?" Aria went into work mode immediately. She tapped the phone and said, "Send me the details of the job." "Sure thing!" The next moment, the floor-to-ceiling windows became a screen, and the job information was projected on it. The York family had been around for ages. They had protected the country for generations. If Aria's memory served correctly, they even lived in the Guardian Mansion once. The York family had sent out invitations to quite a few renowned doctors. The invitation was in effect for a week. The location for the consultation was set at the Caesar Hotel in Southbury. They wanted to get a doctor who would be able to treat the illness of Landon York, who was in charge of the York family operations. There wasn't much description of Landon's condition. They only mentioned that he had been frail for a long time and that his condition couldn't be revealed to the public. It seemed like there was more than met the eye. Aria stretched her legs. "I'll take this job." Chapter 3 Saving Someone on the Streets "You have a good eye, boss! I'll prepare an account to receive payment from the Yorks!" Aria said calmly, "No need to rush. Let me sleep first. Do it tomorrow." Other than making money, Aria's biggest interest was treating all sorts of rare diseases. This job from the York family was a nice one for her. Honestly, she was probably the only person who wasn't fazed by the York's visit to Southbury. All of the prominent families in the city were scrambling into action. A family like the Kents had to reach out to everyone they knew and utilize all of their connections in an attempt to get an invitation from the Yorks. Even regular people were talking about how the city was especially lively that month. First, the richest man in Janovin came to look for his granddaughter. Then, the York family came to receive treatment. Some said that the Yorks came to Southbury because the legendary Whiz Doctor was in town. There were a lot of rumors about the Whiz Doctor, but some of them were quite outlandish. This time, the Whiz Doctor might actually appear due to the York family's invitation. … The following morning, Aria woke up late. Like any other working adult, she didn't feel like leaving her cool and comfortable room or her cozy bed to get out into the morning sun. But she had to work. So, she got up and washed her face. Without putting any makeup on, she grabbed her bag and left. In order to avoid the morning rush, she scanned a shared bicycle. "Are you heading out to work, Aria?" "Yeah." She was greeting everyone along the way and also had a piece of toast in her mouth given to her by Kenneth Kane. She rode the bicycle steadily without rushing and merged into traffic after a while. … After 30 minutes, Aria arrived at Southbury's renowned Caesar Hotel. Everyone at the entrance and the lobby looked very busy. In the past few days, almost all of the luxury cars in the city gathered at the hotel. In comparison, Aria stood out a lot as the only person who came on a shared bicycle. As soon as she came to a stop, Jose Garcia, a security guard, came over to chase her away. "Get lost, you broke college student. The hotel is not open to the public today." She planted one foot on the ground and met his gaze. Then, she said coolly, "I'm here to save someone's life." "You? Save someone's life?" Jose burst into laughter. "Young lady, you're still so young, but you're quite the braggart." Aria paused for a moment. Then, she showed him proof of her accepting the job on her phone. "Please tell the people inside that Dr. Whiz has arrived." "Dr. Whiz? You can call me Dr. Genius!" Jose gave her an impatient look. "I've seen many invitations. You're the first one to show it on the phone…" Jose noticed a luxury car rolling up as he spoke. So, he waved at Aria. "Go. Get out of the way." Then, he rushed over to the car and opened the door. "Welcome, Dr. Gunther and Ms. Kent. I'll inform the staff to prepare some tea for you." The people in the car just nodded at him. They didn't even reply. But Jose had a big smile on his face like he had won the lottery. The car drove past Aria. Lily looked out the window and recognized Aria. Her gaze wavered slightly. The old woman next to her, Salome Gunther, asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" She smiled softly. "Nothing." Aria's gaze remained calm. She walked away resolutely. There was even an amused expression on her face. She used to be someone who held people's lives in her hands, yet she had become the target of another person's shunning. Oh, how the mighty had fallen. Aria pursed her lips. She offered treatment to patients based on her mood and would never help those who were greedy or selfish. She had decided to give up on offering treatment to the York family's patient. So, she took out her phone and was about to reject the job. Suddenly, someone on the sidewalk screamed. "Oh, no! Someone has fainted!" People started flocking toward the voice. "Oh, God! It's a child!" "His face is so pale…" Hearing the commotion, Aria didn't hesitate at all. She parked her bicycle and rushed toward the crowd. The little boy on the ground was only three or four years old. His forehead was drenched. It seemed like he had been sweating profusely. A woman named Francine Gibson grabbed a man in a white lab coat. "Young man, you're a doctor, right? Please save the boy." "No can do, lady. The kid's family isn't here. I can't make any decisions without consulting them." The man in the lab coat, Jimmy Cornell, added with disdain, "Besides, I don't provide treatment to just anyone." Aria heard the exchange between the two of them. She pushed through the crowd and said in a professional manner, "Please give the boy some space. Let the air flow through. The patient needs fresh air." Her tone sounded so authoritative that no one doubted her. Then, she crouched down and placed her fingers on the boy's neck. Francine said anxiously, "Young lady, how old are you? Can you really make him better?" Chapter 4 Doubt "That's right, young lady. We should probably call an ambulance. This boy appears to be lost. I called out for some time just now, but no one came over," an old man said. He was concerned that Aria might be blamed if anything happened to the boy. Aria quickly unbuttoned the boy's coat and brought him to some shade. "Don't worry. I'm a licensed doctor." Then, she opened her bag and took out a medical kit. It was equipped with needles and scalpels of all sizes, all arranged neatly in rows. Aria felt the boy's pulse again. "Stop it! How can you simply touch the patient?" Jimmy yelled. He couldn't allow Aria to do as she pleased. She ignored him and continued to monitor the boy's pulse and heart rate. Jimmy sneered. "I'm Jimmy Cornell, currently studying at Janovin Medical University. My mentor is Dr. Salome Gunther. I'm not just a random bystander. You say you're a licensed doctor? How old are you?" Aria continued to ignore him. Her focus was on the boy. She took out a needle and began to sterilize it. "I'm talking to you! Even that old man knows we should wait for an ambulance. Why can't you get it through your head?" This was the first time Jimmy had been completely ignored by someone. Aria had one knee to the ground. Her demeanor was cool and emotionless. "Do nothing and wait for the ambulance? Wait as the optimal treatment period passes by? Is that what your mentor taught you?" "Who said we should do nothing while we wait for the ambulance? You're the one delaying treatment with those needles. Please don't show off your pseudo-science methods, and let me perform CPR on the patient." Aria shot him a cold glare after she heard what he said. Who would've thought that such a pretty young lady could have such a vicious gaze? "He has a heat stroke. Do you think CPR would help? What a worthless doctor," Aria said as she applied pressure to the boy's fingers. Her tone was glacial. Jimmy lost his cool immediately. "Who are you calling worthless? Do you even know who my mentor is?" He had just received an award overseas for his medical skills. He was incredulous at the woman's audacity to doubt his abilities. "I'm not interested in your mentor. Move." Jimmy's eyes turned bloodshot. "I'll let it slide this time since you're just a lowly traditional medicine practitioner. His lips are turning blue. It's a heart issue." "Hypoxia and ischemia might impact the respiratory system and cause the lips to turn blue." Aria looked at Jimmy with a cold stare, then added, "But a heat stroke can cause that symptom, too. The difference is that his pulse is steady. Moreover, his lips are parched. "It's clear that he had been exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period. You don't even look at these symptoms, yet you claim to be a medical student?" "That's true. You have to look at the symptoms first. I was taught that too," someone in the crowd agreed with Aria. Then, people in the crowd started chattering. "It seems like the Janovin Medical University isn't anything special at all." "That young lady is way more reliable. I noticed she was quite professional when taking the boy's pulse." Jimmy couldn't take the humiliation anymore. "Alright. So, he has a heat stroke. Will your acupuncture cure him of it? If so, why are we even learning modern medicine?" "You can't represent everyone else who practices modern medicine." Aria glared at him icily. "I'll say it one more time. Move." There were two types of people she hated the most—those who looked down on traditional medicine and lousy doctors getting in the way of her treatment. "Sure, I'll move. I'd like to see how skilled you are." Jimmy crossed his arms. "If you can heal him with these needles, I'll get on my knees and apologize to you." "I'm looking forward to that." Aria located the acupuncture points and raised her hand. Chapter 5 Acupuncture Works Aria stuck the first needle into the boy without any hesitation. The boy immediately frowned. It was like he was regaining his consciousness. It looked like he was struggling as his brows furrowed even deeper. Someone in the crowd yelled, "He's waking up!" Jimmy was stunned. His face grew pale. "This can't be…" How did she pull that off? Just one needle? Could a person really regain consciousness from that? Aria raised her hand again. Her gaze was focused, and she looked very composed. She stuck the second needle into the boy's fingertips to draw some blood. Right after she did that, the boy opened his eyes. His pupils were dark and round, while his eyelashes were extraordinarily long. He glanced at Aria quietly, but his face was still quite pale. Everyone in the crowd was stunned. Francine spoke up, "Young lady, you healed with a few pokes of the needle?" Aria applied some light pressure on the needle. She saw that the bloodletting was done, so she removed the needle and pressed a cotton ball on the wound to stop the bleeding. "Madam, it's not that simple. Applying acupuncture to the fingertips can help with dissipating the heat. He was inflicted with heat stroke, which was caused by the high temperature. I just helped him cool down with acupuncture." "Spare me the theatrics. That kid hasn't spoken a word since he regained consciousness. You probably left him with some side effects with your treatment!" Jimmy snorted. Francine was a little annoyed. "The boy has already regained consciousness. Why are you talking about side effects? Are you just trying to get out of apologizing to the young lady?" "That's none of your business!" Jimmy looked at Francine and suddenly sneered. "I understand now. You're all in on this. You pulled me here, and she's trying to scam me. "This is an organized scam, isn't it? I knew traditional medicine practitioners were all fake." Aria's expression grew cold when she heard that. She was about to raise her hand. Then, the boy spoke up in a weak but icy tone, "Traditional medicine has always been an essential part of Celestria's culture. You're a lousy doctor, sir. You should put more effort into studying." "You…" Jimmy was at a loss for words. The boy spoke up right after he said he wasn't healed. The boy even spoke out against him. It was clear that the boy wasn't on his side. Francine burst out into laughter. "Hey, kid. He's talking about you. You should put more effort into studying." "I won't waste my breath with you bottom feeders anymore. You're just a group of peasants," Jimmy said in disdain. Aria flicked a needle in his direction. It brushed past his face and got stuck in a tree nearby. Such a violent display caused Jimmy to freeze up. Even his legs felt like they were about to give out. Aria smiled as she said casually, "Don't you think you've forgotten about something?" She was just a young woman, but she had a very vicious and commanding presence, which caused Jimmy to feel fear. He tried to keep his cool. "What did I forget?" "An apology," Aria said as she tapped on her phone. She looked devilishly charming. Jimmy didn't want to do that. So, he said arrogantly, "Everyone makes mistakes. I don't have any more time to waste with a traditional medicine practitioner like you." Francine couldn't stand his attitude anymore. "Is this how a student of Dr. Salome Gunther would act? You lost a bet to that young woman, and yet you refuse to apologize? Such ethics…" "What's wrong with my ethics? Who here can prove I lost a bet to her? None of you will ever have enough money to pay for Dr. Gunther's treatment. "Me being here and providing free medical services is an honor for all of you. How dare you peasants keep babbling about such nonsense? Don't you dare cause trouble here! Do you even know where you are right now?" Francine's hands trembled in anger. "You… You!" Jimmy snorted. He looked at all of them with utter disdain. They were in a modern society. He didn't believe that Aria would dare to do anything to him. Chapter 6 Teaching Him a Lesson Jimmy had always thought that the common folk were beneath him. He didn't notice that Aria's gaze changed as she looked up. Viciousness and contempt filled her eyes. She casually toyed with a piece of candy in her palm. Then, she flicked toward Jimmy. He felt his knee give out as he fell to the ground. "Ah!" The pain caused him to frown. He tried to get up but realized that he couldn't move his body at all. He couldn't talk, and his hands wouldn't budge. It felt like his movements had been sealed with the attack. Aria walked up to him and said calmly, "As a medical student, you failed miserably at determining the patient's symptoms, and you even declared a verdict without a second thought. "Being a doctor doesn't mean you're better than anyone else. It's a job for you to help people in need. You're unskilled and unethical. Now that you're on your knees, I'll accept your apology. Consider this a lesson I'm teaching you in your mentor's stead." "You!" Jimmy's eyes were filled with hatred. Aria leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Since you're such a shameless person, it'll probably be okay if you remain on your knees here for a couple of hours." "What did you do to me? I want to call the cops! I have been assaulted!" Jimmy yelled. Aria smiled. "And who can prove anything? Mr. Cornell, you got on your knees yourself. I didn't even touch you." "I know right? He deserves that!" The people in the crowd felt great satisfaction seeing Jimmy in that state. "The young lady didn't do anything. Stop lying!" That was the truth. He was the one who refused to help the boy. He was also the one who was running his mouth after Aria provided treatment for the boy. He was also the one who had been cursing at everyone in the crowd and was shameless enough to refuse to apologize. He was a true disgrace to the medical profession. Did he really think he could just say all those things without repercussions? He even tried to blame Aria for his condition. The women in the crowd started to yell, "Everyone, come and take a look! There's an unskilled medical student here. He's on his knees to apologize right now!" "You! All of you!" Jimmy's face was flushed, and his breath was labored. That was why people didn't mess with the ordinary citizens who were brave, kind, and despised delinquency. Jimmy was a fool for being so domineering in front of them. The more people looked at him, the lower Jimmy's head hung. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him up. He was afraid that someone would recognize him. The malice in his eyes grew as he looked at Aria. They were both in the medical industry. So, they were bound to meet again someday. He swore he would get back at her the next time they met. Aria didn't spare him another glance. Besides, if they crossed paths again, she didn't mind breaking his legs. Quite a lot of the older people in the crowd asked for Aria's contact information. They had seen how she performed acupuncture on the boy. It was clear that she was an extremely skilled doctor. They were determined to secure her contact information. Aria didn't turn any of them down, so she added them to her contacts. Francine asked enthusiastically, "Young lady, you were so skilled with the needles. Is there a traditional medicine practitioner in your family?" Aria thought about Georgina Harris, the woman who used to be her grandmother while she was living with the Kents. Georgina was the only one who showed her any kindness. She came up with a solid reason. "Yes. My grandmother practices traditional medicine. She runs a care center." "No wonder. I'll introduce some clients to her soon!" "Sure." Aria thanked Francine politely. Aria didn't have the airs of a renowned doctor at all. She was a legend hiding in plain sight. The boy hadn't spoken at all since he talked to Jimmy. He just sat there quietly as he observed everything. His eyes were very bright, and he looked really adorable. After she finished talking to everyone else, Aria looked at him. "Are you still lightheaded?" He shook his head. Then, he looked up at Aria. "Miss, I'm Miles. Thanks for saving me. If it weren't for you, I would've been dead." Miles York's voice was very sweet. His eyes were round, and his face was very smooth and cute. He did a cute little bow when he thanked Aria. "Your name is Miles? Where is your family?" Aria asked with a raised eyebrow. "They're all inside!" Miles said as he pointed behind him at the Caesar Hotel. Not just anyone could get in there at the moment. Chapter 7 Saved Someone Important People in the crowd exclaimed in surprise and started talking. "Everyone in Caesar Hotel today is quite important. I heard that there are a lot of prominent medical families in there." "Then this boy…" Aria wasn't surprised at all. After all, Miles was very well-dressed. The watch he was wearing on his wrist was quite expensive as well. "Remember to bring bodyguards when you come out next time," Aria said as she packed her medical kit up. When Miles realized that she was leaving, he clung to her leg. Aria couldn't get on the bicycle, so she looked down at him. Miles didn't speak. He just held on to her sleeve. He took a step whenever she did. They were going nowhere like that. She stopped in her tracks. "I'll take you back to your parents." "Okay!" Miles got what he wanted. He nodded and said, "I'll have my parents thank you properly, miss." Aria adjusted his collar for him. "No need for that. I don't take payment for helping kids." "And…" Miles shifted his gaze. "Do you have a boyfriend, miss?" Aria stood up straight. "No." "Then, I'll ask my brother, Landon, to be your boyfriend as thanks." Miles smiled as he started describing Landon. "Landon doesn't like to talk, but he's very handsome. He makes a lot of money, too. It'll be good for your ego if you go out with him. A lot of pretty ladies want to marry him, you know." Aria smiled when she heard that. "I have no plans of getting married right now." "Okay," Miles replied with disappointment as he drooped his head. He continued walking with Aria dejectedly. When they arrived at the hotel entrance, he looked at Aria enthusiastically and said, "Miss, why don't you meet with Landon first? You should make your decision after you see him." He was sure that Aria would fall for Landon when she saw him. He was a very handsome man, after all. Aria smiled. "You're trying so hard to promote your brother to me. Does he know about this?" "He's always sick. Everyone in the family has been telling him to get married. You're such a skilled doctor, and you're pretty, too. I'm sure a lot of people want to be your boyfriend. So, I'm just trying to get you to give Landon a chance." Aria looked at his parched lips. Then, she went to buy him a bottle of water and some crackers. "Stop talking so much. You're still recovering." Miles was very obedient. He ate whatever Aria gave him. He couldn't open the bottle himself, so he raised it up to Aria and said weakly, "Please help me open it." Landon's assistant, Troy Jepson, came to meet Miles and was shocked to see what was happening. He was sure that the woman with Miles was that imposter that the Kents kicked out. Why was Miles with her? He even asked her to help him open his bottle. Did he change his entire personality? Something flashed in Troy's eyes, but he quickly suppressed his emotions. He knew who Aria was, but she didn't know him. Troy took care not to expose his identity as he walked up to them in a hurry. "Mr. Miles! I've finally found you. I'm so glad you're okay." "This pretty lady saved me," Miles said as he held Aria's hand. He had a defiant look on his face. It was like he was finally himself again. Troy politely said, "Thanks, Ms. Carver." Aria looked at him calmly. "He already thanked me." Her attitude made it hard for Troy to grasp the situation. So, he said to Miles, "Mr. Miles, Mr. Landon called in some favors to track you down. He's in the car right now. He didn't even take his afternoon meds yet." Miles looked up in surprise. He didn't expect Landon to come out here personally. | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877875 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333798 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878059 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324491 | 1723333798 | 991 | 398979849814254 | 1 | 2.7023855765905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 137895286077070 | 0 | FormFree | 120210318336820181 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | A dream home for you and the one you love! | {{product.description}} | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formfree.passportwallet | 1718298546 | 1.3789528607707E+14 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448333091_785596613355358_8894613110947017852_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=suF2N4GWLOoQ7kNvgFyUz5L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDQyinDPLrUUBAMJBUBTODJUQRpq3jTX2Eb3rbdDOP4dQ&oe=66714987 | person_profile | 0 | FormFree | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216403_1119821979105656_7167914698288464941_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j5oqiI4tMewQ7kNvgE0W4bG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCdDlZnWMJkyV17mqxze3YPJilCX3_q_yyGVbMlyptusQ&oe=66714C8A | 0 | 3 | Easy, fast, and secure. Download the PassportWallet® app, connect your deposit account data, learn your borrowing power, and get qualified! Download PassportWallet® now! | FormFree | 318 | https://facebook.com/FormFree1 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877879 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324472 | 1723333798 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877883 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333798 | 991 | 832484831570092 | 5 | 4.2934108319284E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 265015680033634 | 0 | Massive story | 120212069533530002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716980906 | 2.6501568003363E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445242698_995588455545077_2405839290899264462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Evzu0flh0CsQ7kNvgFhUNvG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC0WnG-qoqkKge5Ph1Nly9OH-hzlL2vemhARUINCkKLqQ&oe=667163CA | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445241029_971822111193761_3123167495825798227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HQsnXIS28ecQ7kNvgGEwhN2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYChQPdXaQwZ1LXjzz6m2o_5UQELttZhL8WmSy8xoJ79gA&oe=667160C2 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557833926946 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878110 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324502 | 1723333798 | 991 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WrrehUSk_oIQ7kNvgFVtzf5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBauxdYanufU_KsDya8TvDf6kzYLeUIG9u4mRtv6oQ4eA&oe=667174C7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 809 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877887 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333798 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877889 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333798 | 991 | 976133923970880 | 1 | 1.1303900481905E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877894 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324473 | 1723333798 | 991 | 996794385151373 | 1 | 4.7613411813989E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120210157711830342 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.read.goodnovel | 1718113310 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448199353_336029016195951_6337823340457774507_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IWeDeRYTPU8Q7kNvgHqUZB2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAdSH4R_NMnzy2CoD0vA4iuhjgeVoUalco962gxuONsvg&oe=66715C0B | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204243_1500489524185533_9145284433674404544_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rsR_EFLfvLMQ7kNvgE1i6Sx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkjtrxfU523TVEXxd4YXCFllrVJpLxNsfar9M2kpPv1A&oe=667167B8 | 0 | 3 | 💔Everyone in Norvania knew who Nathan Morrison was. But nobody knew I was his wife. More sadly, when I was tortured by criminals, he was sleeping with another woman... | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878127 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324506 | 1723333799 | 991 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eOikLX3Is90Q7kNvgEZ0Nil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFQ4KCosA0loOd4qa3mDr7wLGEMtjB6KcxC0frj5_vtQ&oe=66715848 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5YaHIcawK50Q7kNvgH3X9hf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYPKKZIoToUESGZhLjbV4sUgjDsSXbbxevxF8lE4BiYA&oe=66716648 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 644 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877899 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877900 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877902 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1123587355422972 | 1 | 7.6990506525411E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877905 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877906 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877908 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877913 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1126652285269237 | 1 | 9.8335474649662E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877919 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324474 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877923 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1147578309846881 | 1 | 9.3716217476051E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877928 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877930 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324475 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1446131629599107 | 1 | 9.3528040839923E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717830000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877939 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324476 | 1723333799 | 991 | 1828612057649255 | 1 | 9.7304891769959E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 273913162469522 | 0 | New world publications | 120212928768730170 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717757425 | 2.7391316246952E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959759_1311554859802432_4227718076479884991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GwKF1hWO7f4Q7kNvgFh6Ac5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAw81kSWKqNv181427J5CHifZloiSvftZF7ku2bG1Qr8w&oe=6671551D | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959270_7187349571370885_4976612476689122460_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=psFp7Ngxc4EQ7kNvgFci0dL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7387lSyPZxuI_ajW9dYCH4SBZKNZkmx0W9VoUrho-yw&oe=667162D5 | 0 | 3 | The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. “Come forward.” He orders. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. “I am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them. There was no way I was making direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” “For what?” “For killing my parents.” | New world publications | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557831245498 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877951 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324478 | 1723333799 | 991 | 7599646173405331 | 4 | 8.1189217383301E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716274800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877977 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333799 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877979 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333800 | 991 | 852648416883627 | 1 | 1.5180985854404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877981 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324480 | 1723333800 | 991 | 495065459752719 | 1 | 4.0279158608082E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878005 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333800 | 991 | 1191279425651029 | 1 | 1.1841458962763E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 299026206627385 | 0 | Reading matter | 120209775879570390 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11632&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717754696 | 2.9902620662738E+14 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959833_690035193239071_8338086885496487765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-XLIGvqSOsQ7kNvgFvPwRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsnBGvQIQyrxRJoYkcFXANp5Vi1BAEvXyDswym7w_Lrw&oe=66715B39 | person_profile | 0 | Reading matter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447959769_1190715732374544_2758543800221804444_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HMc1ybrp76sQ7kNvgEyQ9Ac&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBN6bYHwo_T01MZDkE3v-7ks56jGKiLMpJpfi4jQsAh8g&oe=66717823 | 0 | 3 | "James, between me and Haley, who do you love more?" "Of course, it's you, my dear. Haven't my actions proven it enough? Hmm?" "But, I want to hear you say it yourself." "Darling, you are the woman I love the most. Relax, you're too tense..." The man's suppressed heavy breathing, mixed with the woman's seductive sounds, soon filled the hotel suite. Haley Carter stood outside the slightly ajar door, her blood almost freezing, unable to stop trembling from the piercing cold. An hour ago, someone sent her a video clip. In the video, her fiancé, James Ford, was hot kissing her half-sister Xena Carter in the corridor of this hotel. She initially thought it was a prank, but she never expected that these two had long been involved with each other. She took a deep breath, trying to restrain the anger surging in her chest. Quietly, she took out her phone from her pocket and pushed the door open. The two on the bed were still immersed in their intense pleasure when suddenly they heard a cold voice, "What a splendid drama. Shall I applaud for you?" Both froze, turning their gaze towards the direction of the door. "Ah!" Xena screamed, panicked, and shrank into James's embrace. "Haley? What are you doing here?" James covered himself with a blanket, displeased. "Who let you come in?" Haley crossed her arms, looking at him mockingly. "If I didn't come, wouldn't I miss such a splendid scene?" "Haley, James and I truly love each other. Please, let us be together!" Xena's eyes reddened, tears glistening, portraying an innocent and pitiful look. James felt heartbroken, tightly holding her in his arms, and said in a deep voice, "Haley, if you have any issues, take them up with me. Xena is innocent!" Haley sneered, "Innocent? How dare you utter those words?" "That's enough! The one I love, from beginning to end, has only been Xena. If you had an ounce of self-awareness, you would go to Grandma and cancel our engagement!" What he liked was someone like Xena, gentle and submissive, yet uninhibited and open-minded in bed. But Haley was awkward and conservative, not even allowing a touch of hands, utterly boring! Being with Haley, he couldn't feel an ounce of joy! Haley's eyes narrowed, a dangerous and icy light flickering at the depths. "Cheating is cheating. Don't give yourselves excuses. If I were to release the video of you two in bed, would anyone still think you're innocent?" James and Xena's faces turned pale, roaring, "Haley, delete the video now!" "And if I say no?" Haley stepped back two paces, provocatively lifting her chin towards them. "James, if you don't like me, you could have straightforwardly called off the engagement. I'm not someone who can't live without you. Your current behavior disgusts me." If James had openly called off the engagement, maybe she would have respected him a bit more. But alas... "Haley, stop right there!" Watching Haley walk away, James burned with anger, instinctively wanting to chase after her. However, Xena held onto his waist tightly, crying with grievance. "James, what should we do? Haley must be mad at me. Perhaps from the beginning, I shouldn't have liked you, then I wouldn't have hurt her..." Hearing this, James's heart filled with guilt and pity, leaving him with no inclination to chase after Haley. He kissed Xena's forehead and whispered softly, "Xena, you're just too kind. If it weren't for her interference, maybe we would have been together long ago!" "James, you're so good to me..." Xena's lips curved slightly, her eyes fixed on the direction Haley disappeared, a trace of a triumphant smile flashing. Thinking of competing with her? Haley was still too naive! She believed it wouldn't be long before she snatched away the position of Mrs. Ford! … As Haley left the hotel, it started to pour outside. Endless night enveloped her, with only occasional flashes of lightning and dim streetlights visible through the pouring rain. Standing in the rain, Haley was drenched from head to toe. The scenes of James and Xena's affair played over and over in her mind, making her feel nauseous. On top of not eating all day, her stomach was cramping painfully. She forced herself to walk to the roadside, but finally couldn't bear it anymore and slowly crouched down. The icy rain hit her snow-white skin, sending shivers down her spine. Her vision blurred, making it hard for her to distinguish reality from dreams. After who knows how long, the rain hitting her seemed to gradually stop. Haley slowly opened her eyes and noticed a shadow before her. She had a sense of it and slowly lifted her gaze. The first thing she saw was a pair of well-tailored trousers, wrapping around a pair of long, straight legs. Moving upwards, she saw a handsome face with a cold demeanor. The man's slightly furrowed brows, high nose bridge, and tightly pursed lips were striking. His deep eyes were lowered, shrouded in darkness, seemingly blending with the night. Haley stared at him in surprise, a hint of bewilderment in her eyes. "Mr. Ford? Why are you here?" The man before her was Shane Ford, the most influential member of the Ford family, the top-tier business family in Jasper City. He was also her former fiancé's uncle, James's uncle. He was the late child of Mr. Ford Sr. and inherited exceptional business acumen. Taking over the Ford Corporation in just a few years, its market value multiplied several times over. What was most feared about him was his ruthless methods and decisive personality. However, he always remained low-key and mysterious, seldom interacting with the younger generation like them. Haley had only crossed paths with him a few times at the Ford family gatherings and hardly ever exchanged words. This man exuded an aura of danger, and Haley usually avoided him whenever possible. Never did she expect to encounter him today, especially in her current disheveled state. "What could possibly make you disregard your own well-being like this?" The man's brow furrowed slightly, his deep, velvety voice sensual and captivating, as if it sent an electric current tingling through her ears, simultaneously soothing and arousing. There was also a subtle hint of concern mixed in. Haley suddenly snapped out of her daze, hastily trying to stand up. However, due to crouching on the ground for too long, her legs had gone numb. Her body swayed suddenly, uncontrollably tilting backward. Just when she thought she was about to fall awkwardly, a pair of warm and powerful hands suddenly wrapped around her waist. The next moment, she fell into a warm and broad chest. Anxiously, she grabbed onto the front of his shirt, afraid of falling. At this moment, the man's rich and husky voice sounded in her ear, tinged with a hint of mockery: "Are you taking advantage of me?" Chapter 2 As she realized the ambiguous position they were in, Haley's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly pulled away from the man's embrace. Feeling embarrassed, she murmured softly, "No, my legs are numb." "Hmm," Shane responded with a pleasant chuckle, though it wasn't clear if he believed her or not. His gentle and deep voice seemed to have a calming effect, causing Haley's heart to flutter slightly, feeling both tingly and itchy. She rubbed her ears curiously and asked, "Mr. Ford, what are you doing here?" Shane replied nonchalantly, "I just happened to pass by." And he happened to see a poor little creature standing in the rain by the roadside, helpless and pitiful like an abandoned cat. Haley nodded knowingly but didn't know what to say. She had just experienced betrayal and felt physically and emotionally drained, only wanting to find a quiet place to rest. Shane glanced at her and asked, "Do you want revenge?" "What?" Haley stared at him in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Shane seemed to understand her confusion and asked patiently, "James betrayed you. Are you planning to let him off the hook?" Haley's expression changed abruptly, becoming wary. "How do you know about this?" If Shane knew, did that mean other members of the Ford family knew too? If that were the case, then all the tough talk she had given in front of James and Xena would turn into a joke. Shane replied, "You came out of the hotel looking like this, isn't that already saying everything?" Haley was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized. Realizing she had misunderstood him, she apologized, "Thank you, Mr. Ford, but I'll handle it myself." No gain without pain. Besides, Shane was also a member of the Ford family. How could he genuinely help her? Regardless, she didn't want to have any further involvement with James and his family. Shane chuckled lightly and answered calmly, "I'll help you, but it's conditional. You might want to hear the terms first." "What terms?" Haley asked. "I'm in need of a wife," he stated succinctly. Haley almost thought she was hearing things. It took her a while to find her voice again. "Mr. Ford, are you kidding me?" Was Shane really looking for a wife? If he wanted to, there would be a line of women eager to say yes. Could he be playing a prank on her? Shane responded, "Do I seem like I'm joking?" Haley shook her head. She had heard many rumors about Shane before. He was known for being decisive, keeping his distance from strangers, and avoiding romantic entanglements. Given his status and position, there was no need for him to waste time joking with her here. "Why then?" Haley asked. "The old lady at home is pressuring me to get married. I need someone to serve as a shield for me. If you agree, I can help you dissolve your engagement with James." Haley froze, looking at him in disbelief. Shane was holding the umbrella, shielding her from the rain that fell upon her. The dim light from the roadside lamp illuminated half of his face, while the other half remained hidden in the darkness, adding a mysterious air to him. This exceptional man was simply incomparable to James, that scoundrel! Yet, her rationality remained. She questioned in puzzlement, "Why me?" With Shane's power and his devastatingly handsome face, attracting any woman should have been a piece of cake for him. So why choose her? She never believed that good fortune would fall into her lap. Even if it did, it would never hit her. Shane explained, "Because I need someone who knows the ins and outs and can also achieve mutual interests with me. You fit my criteria." "But..." Just as Haley hesitated, Shane suddenly leaned down. His deep and enticing voice sounded in her ear. "Don't you want James to call you 'aunt'? Moreover, if you marry me, Xena will never set foot into the Ford family." Haley's eyes lit up instantly, unable to contain her excitement. If she married Shane, James would have to address her as his aunt. Just thinking about it felt satisfying! She stole a glance at Shane, a hint of pity flashing in her eyes. Rumor had it that Shane was already thirty years old and didn't even have a woman by his side. Either he liked men, or he had some hidden illness. Now it seemed that those rumors were probably true. No wonder he wanted to enter into a marriage agreement with her. After pondering for a moment, Haley asked in distress, "Mr. Ford, won't Mrs. Ford Sr. object to this?" After all, until the engagement with James was officially dissolved, Haley was still his fiancée. If she turned around and married Shane, who knows what kind of rumors might spread outside? Despite Haley's concerns, Shane remained calm and didn't even furrow his brows. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." With his assurance, Haley completely dispelled any lingering doubts and decisively agreed, "Okay, I agree!" "Then let's go." Shane's lips curled slightly as he lowered his gaze, concealing the subtle emotions within his eyes, before opening the backseat car door. He leaned his hand against the car roof, considerately protecting Haley's head. His actions were gentlemanly and caring, as if he were treating an intimate lover. Haley was startled by her own thoughts, her cheeks flushing slightly as she hurriedly got into the car. Although the heater was on inside the car, she couldn't help but shiver. She hugged her arms and leaned back in the seat, wishing she could curl up into a ball. Suddenly, a hand with distinct knuckles passed her a towel. Shane's voice remained steady, without any fluctuation. "Wipe yourself dry. Don't catch a cold." Haley thanked him quickly and took the towel, wiping her damp hair. The car fell into an eerie silence, with only the sound of her drying her hair breaking the quiet. The atmosphere was strangely unsettling. Feeling uneasy all over, Haley cleared her throat and pretended to be calm as she asked, "Are we going to the county clerk's office now?" Shane glanced at her, his expression profound. "We can, but are you sure you want to go like this?" Following his gaze, Haley lowered her eyes, only then realizing that she was completely soaked and looked disheveled. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole to hide in. She had almost forgotten that because of the rain, she was drenched all over. Her white shirt was clinging tightly to her skin, and even the color of her bra was clearly visible. This appearance was indeed not suitable for getting married. And did she sound too eager just now, as if she were in a rush to marry him? Would he misunderstand? Haley cautiously glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, seeing his calm expression, finally breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shane’s assistant, Dean, who was driving, couldn't help but sigh as he looked at the rearview mirror. His boss was too unusual, completely overturning his previous understanding. In fact, they had been waiting outside the hotel the whole afternoon. Originally, he had come with Shane for a business meeting, but before they even got out of the car, they saw James and Haley's step-sister, Xena, entering the hotel together. Shane immediately instructed him to anonymously message Haley to catch them in the act at the hotel. At first, he didn't quite understand why his boss wanted to scheme against his own nephew. But now, he finally understood. How could a nephew be more important than a wife! No wonder his boss always looked at Haley with a peculiar gaze before. Now, thinking back, everything made sense! His boss had long harbored feelings for Haley. No, it's more like deep affection for her! Chapter 3 While Dean was lost in thought, he suddenly felt a chill at the back of his neck. He turned his head and met Shane's cold, beast-like gaze. Shivering fiercely, he dared not wander in his thoughts anymore, focusing solely on driving. Fortunately, Shane only gave him a cold glance, warning him to drive properly, and quickly withdrew his gaze. After getting out of the car, Shane took Haley into his residence. He fetched a clean set of clothes from the closet and handed them to her. "Go take a hot shower first. There aren't any women's clothes here, so you can wear mine for now." "Okay," Haley's cheeks flushed slightly as she hurriedly took the clothes and entered the bathroom. She almost fled, too afraid to meet Shane's gaze and thus missed the fleeting smile in his eyes. Haley spent a long time in the bathroom, leaning against the wall, letting the shower water wash over her. Being betrayed by James and Xena was something she had never expected, and marrying Shane was even beyond her wildest imagination. She felt that something was amiss, but her mind was a jumble, unable to sort out her thoughts. Soon, steam filled the bathroom, reddening her fair, snow-like face. When she emerged from the bathroom, Shane was no longer in the bedroom. Descending the stairs, she found a tall figure bustling about in the kitchen. The man was tall, clad in a white shirt and neatly tailored trousers, exuding extraordinary charisma. His shirt sleeves were rolled up, revealing well-defined arms. He wore a dark blue apron that softened his cold and aloof demeanor, adding a touch of warmth. Haley's eyes flashed with surprise. Could it be that Shane, a business tycoon, also cooked for himself? What a gentle and domesticated man! He perfectly matched her criteria for a partner from head to toe! Suddenly, something crossed her mind, and Haley's admiring gaze turned into pity. She sighed silently in her heart. How could such an outstanding man have hidden ailments? What a pity! Hearing footsteps, Shane paused and slowly turned around. His gaze fell upon Haley, and his eyes darkened slightly. Her petite figure was enveloped by his white shirt, the hem barely covering her upper legs, revealing a glimpse of slender and fair legs, straight and well-proportioned. In the light, they seemed dazzling. Shane's eyes lingered on those pretty, slender legs for a moment, suddenly feeling a heat rise within him. He averted his gaze, his voice tightening slightly. "Go put on some pants." Haley lowered her eyes and realized that dressing like this in front of an adult man was indeed a bit ambiguous. Her cheeks flushed in response. She whispered, "Your pants are too big for me, I can't wear them." Shane's expression turned cold as he went upstairs without looking back. If Haley had observed carefully, she would have noticed that his steps were somewhat disordered. But her cheeks were already as red as ripe shrimp, and she had no mind to observe Shane. Not long after, Shane came downstairs with a black pair of trousers and a belt in hand. "Put these on," he instructed. Perhaps sensing his tone was a bit harsh, he added, "Be careful not to catch a cold." Haley took the pants and went to the bathroom to change. With the constraint of the belt, she managed to put on the pants, though they were long and baggy, appearing quite bulky. She had to roll up the cuffs. When she came out of the bathroom, she found Shane had already set a bowl of freshly made chicken noodle soup on the table. It was a comforting and savory bowl of soup, with tender noodles and garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Haley was so shocked that she couldn't speak. She never expected Shane to actually cook. Though it was just a simple bowl of noodles, coming from Shane, it felt somehow out of place. Seeing Shane heading to the kitchen to fetch utensils, she followed him voluntarily. "Mr. Ford, do you need any help?" Upon hearing the term "Mr. Ford," Shane's body stiffened, and a hint of coldness almost overflowed from his eyes. He lowered his gaze, forcing himself to restrain his emotions, and hoarsely replied, "No need, just sit down and wait. I'll handle it myself." Haley didn't insist further and obediently sat down at the table, waiting for the meal to begin. After experiencing so much this afternoon, she was indeed feeling a bit hungry. Shane handed her the fork and spoon, then sat down opposite her. 'Dig in, just be careful, it's hot.'" Haley immediately started eating, the fragrance of the noodles filling her taste buds. A warmth spread through her empty stomach. Perhaps even she hadn't noticed, but her wariness and guard against Shane were slowly diminishing. As she ate, she raised her thumb towards Shane. "It's delicious, Mr. Ford. I didn't expect you to be such a great cook!" The warm-toned light in the dining room shone on her, illuminating her delicate and fair cheeks, soft and beautiful. She lowered her gaze, her cheeks puffing up with each chew, her eyes squinting with happiness and contentment. She looked so obedient that it made him want to ruffle her hair. But he couldn't do that, or he might scare her away. A skilled hunter should possess patience above all else, and that was one thing he definitely had. His palm curled slightly, then he casually retracted it. Shane silently told himself that there was plenty of time ahead. Haley was immersed in her food, completely unaware that she had become the lamb to be eaten, enjoying her meal with extra satisfaction. Halfway through, she noticed there was a poached egg at the bottom of the bowl. She looked up at the man across from her, but saw him eating his noodles gracefully, his expression showing no sign of anything unusual. Haley silently watched him eat until he finished his bowl of noodles, but there was no sign of the poached egg. So, was it specially made for her? Haley's emotions suddenly became somewhat complicated. Previously, she always felt that Shane's gaze was too intense, so she always tried to avoid it whenever possible. Coupled with the rumors surrounding him in the outside world, she became even more afraid of him. But now, it seemed like he wasn't that scary after all, and he was even very attentive and meticulous. After finishing the meal, Shane got up to clean up the dishes. He glanced at a girl sitting in the chair, gently stroking her belly, her face filled with contentment, and a smile formed at the corner of his lips. Haley quickly stood up from her chair, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Mr. Ford, let me do it, I know how to wash dishes." "No need, just leave it to me," Shane dodged her hand and walked straight to the kitchen. Watching him skillfully turn on the faucet and start washing the dishes, Haley touched her nose, feeling like she would just be a hindrance if she went, so she sat back down. Shane finished washing the dishes and came out of the kitchen, handing Haley a printed document. Curiously, Haley took it and saw several large words written on it, "Marriage Agreement, Party A: Shane, Party B: Haley..." She widened her eyes in surprise. "Mr. Ford, when did you write this?" Meeting Haley's clear and bright eyes, Shane cleared his throat lightly. "On the way back." Actually, when Haley went into the hotel to "catch the affair," his car was parked nearby, and that's when he started writing this marriage agreement. But these were things he absolutely couldn't say out loud. Chapter 4 Haley skimmed through the marriage agreement, falling into a moment of silence. Seeing her hesitation, Shane's heart inexplicably tightened, prompting him to ask, "Is there a problem?" Haley shook her head, incredulous. "Mr. Ford, are you sure you want to sign this agreement with me?" The agreement posed no issues; in fact, each clause within it was almost entirely in her favor. Marrying Shane not only granted her the status and position of Mrs. Ford but also secured a 3% stake in the Ford Corporation, along with real estate under Shane's name. In the event of a divorce, she would even be entitled to half of Shane's personal assets. The Ford Corporation was the largest multinational conglomerate in Jasper City, with investments in finance, real estate, hospitality, and various other industries, and its stock value was continuously rising. Compared to her third-rate wealthy family, whose combined assets couldn't even afford 1% of the Ford Corporation's shares, Haley would overnight become immensely wealthy through this marriage. Shane's expression remained calm and composed as he casually poured a dose of cold medicine from a bottle. "Hmm, go ahead and sign." He was certain he wouldn't divorce. As for money, it was merely a bunch of numbers to him. The purpose of making money was simply to accumulate assets for his wife. According to what he'd heard from his subordinates, after marriage, the husband was expected to hand over his salary and assets to his spouse. As for divorce... Well, that was out of the question for this lifetime. Having finally lured his little wife back home, there was no chance she would escape again. Haley gritted her teeth and swiftly signed her name on the agreement. Regardless of how long this marriage lasted, she was guaranteed to benefit! Watching as Haley signed her name in the bottom right corner, Shane smirked in satisfaction. He took the marriage agreement and handed over the cold medicine he had prepared. "Drink this medicine. You got caught in the rain, be careful not to catch a cold." "Thank you, Mr. Ford," Haley said, flashing a sweet smile as she took the cup. The bitter taste of the cold medicine hit her senses as she took a sip. Pinching her nose, she gulped down the medicine in one breath. Shane lowered his gaze, suppressing the curve of his lips from turning upwards, and spoke slowly, "It's getting late. You should rest early." Haley suddenly froze. Tonight... was she going to sleep with Shane? The thought sent her heart racing. "Mr. Ford, could you maybe spare a separate room for me?" Shane raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Are you worried I might do something to you?" "Of course not!" Haley denied without thinking. She just wasn't accustomed to sleeping with strangers. To her, Shane had always been her elder, her fiancé's uncle. Shane's dark eyes bore into her, emitting a chilling aura. "There's no clause in our agreement about separate rooms." Haley was at a loss for words. Indeed, there wasn't such a clause in the agreement. She suddenly regretted signing the marriage agreement. Shane was too mysterious, too dangerous. Collaborating with him was like dancing with a tiger. Seeing Haley's hesitation, Shane sighed softly. "If you're uncomfortable sleeping together, I can give you time to adjust. But as a married couple, we are supposed to spend our lives together." The words "spend our lives together" were spoken with particular seriousness. Haley blushed and lowered her head, too embarrassed to meet Shane's gaze. After a long silence, she gritted her teeth and said, "It's fine. I can adapt!" Since she had signed the contract, she had to honor it. It was just sharing a bed, and it wasn't like she was losing out! Haley was led into Shane's bedroom in a daze. When she came in to take a shower before dinner, she rushed into the bathroom in a panic. Now, with a quiet mind, she began to size up the bedroom. Was this really a place where people lived? It felt too deserted. The large bedroom was decorated mainly in black and white, simple yet understated. There was barely any furniture in the room. Despite being the master bedroom, it felt excessively vacant, devoid of any warmth or homely atmosphere. Instead of feeling like a home, it resembled more of a temporary lodging. Haley cast a complicated glance at Shane, unable to imagine how he could live in such a cold environment. Shane cleared his throat uneasily. "Just make do for tonight. If there's anything you need, we can buy it tomorrow." "Okay." "I still have work to do. You go ahead and sleep." "Okay!" Her tone was noticeably more eager than before, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave. Shane gave her a deep look. "You're really eager for me to leave, aren't you?" Meeting his probing gaze, Haley chuckled awkwardly and waved at him. "Goodnight, Mr. Ford." "Hmm." Shane turned and left the bedroom. As the door closed behind him, the slight tension in his lips, which had been held back, relaxed ever so slightly, forming a faint curve. His gaze lingered on the closed door, and he lowered his voice. "Goodnight." In the room, Haley lay on the soft bed, her tense nerves slowly relaxing, sighing in comfort. The bedding seemed to carry the scent of pine from Shane, refreshing and pleasant. She had thought she would have trouble sleeping in a strange bed, but she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. After finishing his video conference, Shane realized it was already past two in the morning. He closed his laptop and headed towards the bedroom. In the dark night, the bedroom door opened silently, and the tall figure of a man slowly approached the bed, gazing at the person already fast asleep. The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the girl's delicate and fair face. Before lying down beside her, Shane reached out his hand, his rough fingertips gently stroking her cheek. Haley didn't sleep well that night, instinctively sensing the approach of danger in her dreams. It was as if she was being stalked by a wild beast in the jungle, sending shivers down her spine. When she woke up, she found her back and forehead drenched in sweat. Looking around the unfamiliar room, it took her a few seconds to remember what had happened the day before. At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by a respectful and steady male voice from outside. "Madam, are you awake? I'm Bob Moore, the butler of Violet Grove." "Yes, give me a moment." Haley quickly got out of bed to answer the door. Despite looking a bit disheveled from just waking up, it didn't diminish her beauty in the slightest. Her fair cheeks were smooth and radiant, while her eyes, clear and bright, held a hint of sleepiness, adding a touch of innocence. A glint of admiration flashed in the butler's eyes, nodding with satisfaction. Finally, Mr. Ford's wish had been fulfilled. Mr. Ford always achieved what he wanted, without fail. Although the methods were somewhat less than honorable and might tarnish the Ford family's reputation if exposed, those were minor issues. Mr. Ford's reputation outside wasn't great to begin with, so a little more damage wouldn't matter. He smiled and said, "Madam, breakfast is ready. Would you like to have some?" As he assessed Haley, she was also studying him. He appeared to be in his forties, dressed sharply in a suit, meticulously groomed, with a perfectly poised smile on his lips, courteous yet distant. "Okay." Haley smiled and quickly freshened up before heading downstairs. As she sat down at the dining table, she noticed that Shane wasn't there, which piqued her curiosity. The butler noticed her puzzlement and explained, "Mr. Ford had a meeting this morning. He left for the office about an hour ago." "Ah, I see," Haley nodded, indicating that she understood. She ate her breakfast quietly, feeling relieved inside. Even though they were married by agreement, she still felt strangely nervous at the thought of Shane. Perhaps it was because of his overpowering presence that made people hesitate to approach him easily. Chapter 5 The household staff huddled together, gossiping quietly. And the subject of their gossip was none other than Haley. Early in the morning, the butler informed them that there would be a new lady of the house from now on, and instructed them to take care accordingly. Everyone was shocked, unable to believe that the usually aloof Shane had actually brought a woman home. Before Haley descended the stairs, everyone speculated about her identity. They all wanted to know what kind of woman could match Shane, this high and mighty figure. When they finally laid eyes on Haley's face, they were all thoroughly amazed. Haley's features were delicate, her skin as fair as snow, her almond-shaped eyes bright and clear, yet exuding an inexplicable allure. She was even more beautiful than the actresses on TV! What surprised them the most was that Haley was wearing Shane's shirt. Shane was known throughout the entire villa for his slight obsession with cleanliness. Nobody was allowed to touch his belongings. Being able to wear Shane's shirt indicated a relationship that was definitely out of the ordinary. "This is the first time Mr. Ford has brought a woman home. It's really unheard of!" "She's so beautiful, no wonder Mr. Ford made an exception for her." "Mr. Ford isn't getting any younger. It's time for him to have a wife." ... Just as everyone was discussing, someone suddenly spoke up: "Wife? Do you even know who this woman is? She's James's fiancée!" Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. Her name was Lily Frank and everyone called her Lily. She had been working at the family estate before Shane moved in and took several household staff with him. Lily was one of them. "What? James's fiancée?" Lily glanced disdainfully in the direction of the dining room and said, "She’s just a seductive vixen. If James isn't into her, she goes after Mr. Ford!" She had seen Haley at the family estate before and naturally knew about the engagement between James and Haley. Flirting around without calling off the engagement, what else could she be but a seductress? She couldn't stand such women, with their pretty faces, seducing others everywhere. Who knew what spell she cast on Mr. Ford to bring her home? If this were to get out, the Ford family's reputation would surely be tarnished, wouldn't it? Lily's words piqued everyone's curiosity, and they gathered around to ask what she knew. Just then, a furious roar came from behind, "What are you all gathering here for? Are all the chores done?" Seeing the butler approaching with a stern face, the household staff couldn't help but cower and quickly dispersed. They had a natural fear of the butler. Although he was always polite and maintained a courteous smile, he still gave off an oppressive aura. Every interaction with him left them breathless. As the butler approached, his gaze swept over all the household staff, and he warned, "Let me reiterate, Madam is the lady of the house here. If I hear any gossip from your mouths again, pack your bags and leave. Do you understand?" "Yes, understood!" The household staff nodded hastily. Satisfied, the butler withdrew his gaze and looked at Lily. "Repeat what you just said in front of me." Lily was startled and immediately lowered her head further. "I didn't say anything! Bob, please forgive me. I just spoke without thinking." The butler sneered, "Come see me later and settle this month's wages." Lily panicked, "Bob, you can't treat me like this! I was personally chosen by Mrs. Ford Sr.!" The butler glanced at her indifferently. "I will personally report this to Mrs. Ford Sr. and I believe she will decide who is more important, the daughter-in-law or the household staff." With that, he left without looking back. Lily's legs went weak, and she fell to the ground, her face turning pale with fright. It's over, it's all over now! The other household staff were also stunned. Lily had followed from the family estate and had been working here for several years, yet she was dismissed so easily. Wouldn't their fate be even worse? After this incident, almost all the household staff remembered one thing: never disrespect Haley. In the dining room, Haley was completely unaware of this, enjoying her breakfast. The chefs hired by the Ford family were top-notch, and the breakfast they made was delicious. Haley ate contentedly, her mood becoming very pleasant. Just then, her phone on the side suddenly rang. Haley's brows furrowed slightly as she glanced at the caller ID. It was her father, Joe Carter, calling. Without much thought, she knew it must be her dear younger sister tattling on her again. As she answered, she was greeted with a burst of anger, "Haley, you've grown some guts, actually daring to stay out all night and making your sister cry. Get back here right now!" Coldness flashed in Haley's eyes as she retorted without hesitation, "Isn't this what I learned from you? My staying out all night is all thanks to your exemplary teachings." When her mother was still alive, Joe often used the excuse of being too busy with work to come home. In the past, she naively believed it, striving to be an obedient and sensible child, afraid of causing trouble for Joe. But what was the result? Less than a month after her mother's death, he shamelessly brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter into the house. It wasn't until then that she realized, the so-called work was just an excuse. In reality, he had long been with another family. Joe gave all the paternal love she yearned for to another daughter. As for her and her mother, they meant nothing to him. It was truly remarkable how he managed to navigate between two families for over a decade without being caught. Not acknowledging him as a time management master was really unfair considering all his years of hard work. Chapter 6 "Haley, you dare say that again! Have I raised you all these years just so you could argue with me? How did I end up with such a troublemaker like you?" Joe was about to explode with anger, barely believing these words were coming from Haley's mouth. Haley took her phone away without expression, rubbed her ears, and said, "If you're so eager to hear it, why don't you just record it? Play it every night before bed." She behaved obediently in front of Shane out of instinctive fear. As for others, even her biological father, she could argue with them without hesitation. In the past, she used to feel hurt and upset because of Joe's scolding, but after her mother's death, she came to terms with it. She realized that one should never have expected what didn't belong to them, or you would only end up hurting yourself. So when she found out about James's betrayal, she didn't feel too sad. Instead, she felt relieved. At least they weren't married yet, and there was still a chance to salvage everything. Joe's angry scolding kept coming through the earpiece, and she impatiently said, "Got it," before hanging up the phone. She did need to go back; she hadn't settled the score with Xena yet, and this matter wasn't over. She elegantly wiped the corners of her mouth, got up, and met the bewildered gaze of the butler. Haley coughed lightly, smiled at the butler, nodded, and quickly went upstairs. She wasn't afraid of being misunderstood; she just felt a little awkward. Although she and Shane had an agreement to get married, having lived in the aristocratic circle for more than twenty years, she knew that the wealthier the family, the more they valued their reputation. Since she intended to use Shane to get back at James and Xena, she had to play the role of Mrs. Ford well. The butler watched her departing figure with mixed feelings. He never expected that this seemingly obedient and gentle girl would have such a tough side. However, thinking about the rumors surrounding the Carter family, the butler couldn't help but feel sorry for Haley. Joe was originally a poor boy with nothing. Later on, he married Yvonne Ramsey, Haley's mother, and with her help, they started a company. Yvonne was a woman with a keen business acumen, and within a few years, she had managed the company exceptionally well. The brand 'JY' even penetrated the international market, expanding from a clothing brand to various sectors including finance, real estate, and more. At its peak, the Carter family even entered the upper-class circles. However, later on, Yvonne got cancer and faced Joe's betrayal, gradually becoming weaker and having no time or energy to manage the company anymore. Joe took the opportunity to intervene in the company, and even inserted many of his own people, intending to take over the company. What's more, less than a month after Yvonne's death, Joe actually brought his mistress and illegitimate daughter home. Haley's position in the Carter family became awkward. Later, rumors in the circle often circulated about Haley's fiancé, James, having ambiguous relationships with Xena, his illegitimate daughter. Everyone was waiting for Haley to be dumped, eager to witness her downfall. She was indeed a pitiable child. Fortunately, with her husband's protection in the future, everything would only get better. ** Haley changed into the clothes she washed and dried the night before, greeted the butler and prepared to go out. The butler kindly asked, "Madam, would you like the driver to take you? It's not very convenient to get a taxi around here." This area was surrounded by a large villa district, where there were usually dedicated drivers, and it was rare to take a taxi. Moreover, the security system here was very high-level, and if one couldn't prove their identity, the security guards wouldn't let them in. Haley thought for a moment and nodded. "Okay." The butler immediately selected a low-key yet luxurious car from the garage and instructed the driver to safely escort Haley. Upon arriving at the Carter family, Haley got out of the car and took a deep breath. If it weren't for something she had to take with her from home, she wouldn't set foot here again. This place was never her home, and Joe had never considered her his daughter. She could even foresee how much scolding and rebuking she would endure once she entered. Sure enough, as soon as she stepped into the Carter family's living room, something was suddenly thrown out from inside. Her pupils contracted, instinctively she dodged to the side. A delicate and pretty glass flew past her and landed not far behind her with a loud shattering sound, almost piercing Haley's eardrums. If Haley had been a little slower to dodge, she would probably have been hit severely. Joe was still furious, putting all his strength into it. If the glass landed on Haley, it would definitely leave a severe injury. Haley stood stunned for several seconds before coming to her senses, and as she turned her head, she met Joe's angry gaze. "You have the nerve to come back? How did I raise such a wicked daughter? You even have the audacity to bully your own sister!" He seemed still enraged, his entire face as dark as coal, and his voice carried an uncontrollable anger. Accompanying his roar was a sob filled with grievances. Haley looked over and saw her stepmother, Zoe Lewis, and stepsister, Xena, sitting on the sofa, huddled together in tears. Their appearance seemed to suggest they had suffered a great injustice. Chapter 7 Zoe wiped her tears as she lamented, "Haley, I know you've never liked me as your stepmother, but Xena is innocent. How could you be so heartless?" "Did she tell you I bullied her?" Haley suddenly chuckled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes; instead, they were icy cold. Meeting Haley's gaze, Xena suddenly shivered, her eyes flickering with guilt. But when she remembered James's assurance from last night, promising to break off the engagement with Haley, her sense of guilt completely vanished. James loved her. It was Haley's own fault for not being able to win a man's affection. Haley couldn’t blame her! Seeing her brazen demeanor, Joe grew angry. "Who else but you? Xena is gentle and kind, unlike you, who is jealous and malicious." Haley seemed to find the situation ludicrous and actually laughed. She looked at Xena coldly. "Gentle and kind? Indeed, very kind, to take care of my fiancé in her bed." She didn't bother arguing further with them, instead pulling out her phone and playing a recording. The sultry sounds of a woman mingled with the heavy breaths of a man emanated from the speaker. Joe stood dumbfounded, his whole being frozen in shock. The voices in the video were all too familiar to him. One was his beloved daughter, Xena, and the other was Haley's fiancé, James. He had always believed the rumors were false because he firmly believed that the gentle and kind Xena would never try to steal her sister's man. However, he couldn't deny the truth. He looked at Xena, hoping for her to deny it, but all he saw was her guilty expression as she lowered her head. Now, what was there left for him to misunderstand? He trembled with anger, clutching at his slightly stinging chest, and sternly questioned Xena, "Is this true? Did you really do such a thing?" Xena's face turned pale, she shook her head frantically, and grabbed Joe's sleeve, acting coquettishly, "Dad, listen to me explain. Things aren't like that." Joe's face turned livid, displeased as he said, "But he's your sister's fiancé. Why would you do something like this?" Why? Of course, it was to completely ruin Haley! As long as that old woman from the Ford family was still alive, James wouldn't successfully break off the engagement. Xena absolutely wouldn't allow Haley to marry into the top-tier Ford family and become the esteemed Mrs. Ford while she was forever burdened with the title of the illegitimate daughter! So, she didn't hesitate to seduce James at any cost, behaving lovingly towards him while in the presence of Haley, all to make her realize the reality and voluntarily break off the engagement. Although she was now caught red-handed by Haley, she didn't regret it at all. As long as she could trample Haley underfoot, she was willing to pay any price. From childhood to adulthood, Haley overshadowed her in every aspect. Whether it was in terms of background, appearance, academics, or social connections, wherever Haley was, her radiance would always be completely overshadowed. She refused to accept it! Xena's eyes were full of resentment, like a venomous snake hiding in the grass, spitting poison at its prey. Sinister and dangerous. She stood up and rushed over to snatch Haley's phone. "Haley, turn off the recording for me! James and I are truly in love. If you're sensible, you should take the initiative to step back. It's better for everyone!" Haley quickly stepped back two steps, avoiding her hand. Hearing her words, she couldn't help but sneer. "If you're a third wheel, you're a third wheel. Why bother with all the excuses?" Regardless of whom James truly loved, nominally, she was the only fiancée. James knew very well that she despised betrayal because of her mother, yet he still got involved with Xena, which was even more nauseating. Upon hearing this, Zoe exploded, as if her deepest pain had been pricked. "Who are you calling a third wheel?" She gritted her teeth and raised her arm to slap Haley. But her hand fell in midair, firmly grasped by a fair and delicate hand. Then, with a crisp sound, the clear slap echoed, and Zoe's cheek stung with a fiery pain. She was stunned by Haley's action, covering her face in disbelief. "You hit me? How dare you hit me?" Haley's lips curled slightly as she pulled out a tissue from her shoulder bag and wiped her hands leisurely. After finishing, she said lightly, "Zoe, I just made a passing remark. Why feel so guilty? Besides, you were the one who struck first. You can't blame me for your slow reaction." "You!" Zoe gritted her teeth, her eyes almost bursting with suppressed anger. | Reading matter | 8 | https://facebook.com/61559156515503 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878025 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324483 | 1723333800 | 991 | 1674901933251031 | 1 | 1.3730294167281E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 342924965562549 | 0 | Random Reading | 120211964994730002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716635684 | 3.4292496556255E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445179828_1231353154512704_2683978688725298454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufnMcoi93F4Q7kNvgFwUYIW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbxzxLFKU4kczsE1MOHoOXbzE2a-HsxK4K59-WmhH1lQ&oe=66716A44 | person_profile | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444167427_431984266361305_92450316753065691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfvNcSsxrvAQ7kNvgHyiuDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2IF6yBf_nAg14i_h_JCN4Z8pTubO4ZOHTbrb5cc4Vsg&oe=6671675B | 0 | 3 | I am Luna Lawson, and Felix White is my neighbor. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I've been sure of one thing my whole life—I'm Felix's future wife. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. By the time we turn 18, at a family dinner party at his house, our mothers were discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around! I will never marry you!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. His angry father then gave him a loud slap, sending him slumping to the floor. Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I was the sinner. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." ... One year later, he brings a young lady to me. He gives her a tender and loving gaze, saying, "This is my girlfriend, Lily." I say, "Okay." Later, Felix says, "Lulu, Lili says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I start dating Felix's older brother, Colin White. At first, I think he's pure of heart and free from desire, but after we get together, he starts seducing me with everything he's got. I try to flee, but he chases after me. When I get mad, he coaxes me. He laughs when I scold him and feeds me when I'm hungry. He also holds me when I'm cold … I tell him, "Colin, stay away from me. It's so hot." He locks me in his embrace and smiles devilishly. "Be good. Let me give you another kiss." | Random Reading | 9 | https://facebook.com/61559743679549 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716706800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878064 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324492 | 1723333800 | 991 | 472704218538310 | 12 | 8.4162250112428E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878074 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324494 | 1723333800 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878076 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:49 PM | 1718324495 | 1723333800 | 991 | 478272224667453 | 1 | 9.8867341249763E+14 | 1715497200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120208322655090240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11222&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715247646 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441959051_459948103069197_1403971259308613209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1TSfEhiF8D4Q7kNvgFaol4-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDMk8eFzASicXZ2Elr8BL4TS64a2xg-oPGBR9WkAecyg&oe=6671641C | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520392_1857443494727194_4363879934185925189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QPeoCanp0RMQ7kNvgF9HO5P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA5qQ0iSjhi0Pzo7ac6OytVFjNeW5Kf7YttOCdB_FxFMw&oe=667152AA | 0 | 3 | Melody Swanson had her cell phone's torch turned on to light the path to a white cottage amidst the lavenders. The night breeze was chilly, but all she had on was a white, sleeveless nightgown and lounge slippers. Her expression lifted when she saw she was getting close to the cottage. But the next second, someone reached out from the bushes beside her and gripped her right shoulder tightly. She yelped in shock, dropping her phone onto the ground. The faint light disappeared. The next thing she knew, she was dragged into a hot embrace. "I'll give you a million for one night!" The man's voice rang out behind her. It was deep and smooth. Melody's heart raced at this plot twist. Before she knew it, she'd been flipped onto her front and pinned to the ground amidst the sea of flowers. She widened her eyes and flailed, trying to escape. "No, wait! You've got the wrong person!" "Stop moving, sweetheart. Or are you that desperate for it?" the man rasped. "Let me go!" Melody struggled harder, but the man's tall and toned figure held her in place as he flipped her onto her back. She started feeling scared. She widened her eyes even more, but all she could see were the stars in the sky behind the man's head. There was barely enough light for her to see the man's chiseled features—the desire burning in his eyes was clear as day, though. It was almost as bright as the stars above. Melody tried her best to escape but to no avail. Pain shot through her; the man leaned down to kiss her and swallow her cries. After a long while, he spoke again. His voice was alluring and hoarse. "You're so sweet, darling. I'll give you a million for another round. How about that?" "You're a monster!" Melody's voice was also hoarse from her crying. How could he do something like this to her in such a saintly place? The wind lifted her dress, stained purple by the lavenders they'd crushed underneath them. The scent was oddly intoxicating. They were in Violetville, which was famous for its sea of lavenders. It was so picturesque that many film companies had been attracted to film there. It gradually turned into a filming base. Recently, John Wales, an internationally renowned director, brought a crew of award-winning actors and actresses to Violetville to film a huge production. He'd happened to catch sight of Melody, who was home from college for the holidays. He'd invited her to play the role of an important side character. Melody hadn't expected her sister, Queenie Swanson, to trick her out of the house in the middle of the night upon hearing the news. Queenie had locked the door and refused to open it no matter how she pleaded. Their parents heard everything but did nothing to stop Queenie. The words Queenie had said not too long ago were still reverberating in Melody's mind. "You were capable of catching that director's eye, weren't you? Is it because you've already slept with him? What are you still doing here, then? Go sleep in his hotel room! I won't open the door for you, so get lost!" With no place to go, Melody had no choice but to take shelter in the white cottage amidst the sea of flowers, which was only meant for sightseeing. She hadn't expected to experience something like this, though. Her family's betrayal and the man's advances made her tears flow. They wet the flowers crushed underneath her body. Melody didn't know how long it would take for the man to be sated; it was as if he would never tire. When the sky started turning bright, he finally stopped. He released her hands, which he'd kept pinned in place. Melody immediately grabbed the nearest object and smashed it over the man's head. He'd been saying, "Tell me your name, sweet—" Melody smashed a rock on his head before he could finish. He didn't manage to dodge it—perhaps he was too relaxed after having had his fill of her. Chapter 2 The man swayed on the spot from the impact. Melody pushed him away; he lay there, looking up at her blearily. She lifted the rock, intending to strike him again. This was self-defense! But the words echoed hollowly in her mind—she couldn't do it—she couldn't take his life. Even of a monster, it would stain her forever. Ultimately, she threw the bloodied rock aside and staggered to her feet. She took a step and happened to kick her phone. Melody picked it up and pulled out the cash tucked underneath her phone case. It was the change she'd gotten after doing some grocery shopping. She threw it at the man and snarled, "Listen up—I bought your services for one night, and that's your fee. Keep the change! And don't think it's too little. That's all you're worth!" With that, she turned and stumbled out of the sea of lavenders. The man's vision was already starting to blur. The blood trickled down his forehead and over his eyes. It dyed his vision red as he watched Melody walk away from him. The color of the flowers' stains on her nightgown seemed to mix with the blood in his eyes, giving him the impression that the flowers were blossoming. He was reminded of the night they'd just had together. "Don't go…" he mumbled, reaching for her. But the darkness overtook him. The luxury watch on his wrist gleamed as his hand fell to the ground limply. … Two months later, there was an uproar at the Swanson residence. "You're expecting a baby before marriage! You're a disgrace to the Swanson family! Get out of here!" Horace Swanson shoved Melody away furiously. "This is a small town, and the people here are all good, honest people. How could you pick up all these bad habits from those celebrities whose private lives are so messed up? Leave now! I'll just act like I never gave birth to you!" Susan Lett waved a hand, looking utterly disappointed. "You should leave, Melody. If the neighbors hear about this, how do you expect Mom and Dad to continue living here? I'm not married yet, you know. I don't want you to affect my reputation." Queenie stabbed an apple slice with a toothpick and ate it. She sat on the couch, looking like she was enjoying the show. Melody pointed at her. "Queenie's the one who locked me out of the house that night because she wanted to get the chance to be in that film! That's why I ended up getting assaulted. Why do you guys refuse to believe me?" Horace stood up and stormed over to her, giving her a hard slap. "Shut up, you imbecile! You're the one who did something so shameless, yet you're still trying to push the blame onto your sister! Don't ever step foot in here again!" "I raised your sister myself, so I know how kind and loving she is. How can you say that about her?" Susan pulled Queenie, who looked aggrieved, into her arms. She gave Melody, who'd fallen to the floor from Horace's slap, a reproachful look. "Is it really like Madam Williams said, Mom? Am I not your daughter? Is that why you won't believe me?" Melody didn't want to cry, but the tears refused to stay in her eyes. They streamed down her face. "You… Of course you're my daughter! That's why I know what a bad apple you are! How dare you try to blame me when your misbehavior? Leave! Now!" "Fine! I'll go!" Melody staggered to her feet and walked out the door, looking resolute and lonely. … Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Ford Manor was located among a cluster of villas halfway up a mountain in Tottenstone. Ethan Ford was having the same dream again. The woman in his dream wore a white dress, as usual. She had a long, silky smooth hair. He couldn't see her face, though. She didn't seem to enjoy his ministrations—she cried and pleaded with him to let her go, but he couldn't stop himself from sinking deeper. He held her close. In the next second, he opened his eyes and woke up from the dream. Chapter 3 It was this dream again. Ethan had experienced it almost every night for the past five years. No other woman had managed to arouse him since that incident—only the woman in his dreams could. He'd had the same dream for 1,826 days, including today. Even if he was already used to it, Ethan was still irritated. He wiped the sweat from his face; even his hair was damp. He got out of bed. His perfect figure was like a model's, but his face was more handsome than any model could ever have. His demeanor was cold, regal, and domineering. Ethan took a moment to compose himself. He strode to the bathroom after pushing the steamy images out of his mind. The butler, Bill Jones, heard this and came into the room. He quickly changed the soiled sheets. He'd just finished when Ethan came out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel around his waist. As soon as he graced the room with his toned figure, the atmosphere turned somewhat sensual. Bill stood there with his head bowed. When he saw Ethan head to the wardrobe, he said, "Ms. Wendy Nielson called to invite you out for dinner, Mr. Ford. Should I make arrangements? It's high time you let loose and have some fun, sir." Wendy was the daughter of a politician and one of the most well-known socialites in the region. She'd invited Ethan out countless times since running into him at a banquet a year ago. Ethan grabbed a black shirt and put it on, his back muscles rolling as he did so. He didn't even turn back as he said, "You're too noisy." Bill knew this meant Ethan was turning down the invitation. He didn't dare say anything else. 40 minutes later, Ethan strode out of the villa. His assistant, James Sawyer, hurriedly opened the door to a luxury car parked outside. Ethan got into the car elegantly. As the car drove past the main gates, Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror to see two bodyguards stop a woman in a cap and tracksuit. She tried to run after the car; her ponytail swung with her actions. Ethan retracted his gaze and said to James, "Tell the bodyguards they're out of jobs if I see any strangers as soon as I leave the house again." Sweat beaded on James' forehead. "Yes, sir." "Have you found anything on that woman from five years ago?" Ethan tugged on his tie, his eyes cold. He didn't even need to look at anyone to make them shudder. James stuttered, "N-Not yet, sir." "I'll give you another month. If you can't find anything, you can get lost, too!" Unbeknownst to Ethan, the woman he was searching for was behind him. Her figure became smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror. "Mr. Ford, don't go!" Melody finally liberated herself from the bodyguards, but she wasn't in time to catch up with the car. She wanted to run after it, but the bodyguards stopped her again. Amidst the tussle, she fell to the floor and landed on her arm. Pain shot through her. She raised her head to look at the car, but it was long gone. Oh no! It had already been a month—she'd staked out every place that Ethan could possibly be at, but someone had stopped her every time. She couldn't even get close to him. It had taken all her connections to get Ethan's address; she'd waited outside for him from 3:00 am onward for several days in a row. Still, she'd failed to even get close to him, let alone speak to him. "Mr. Sawyer just called us. If you show up here again tomorrow, you'll have to pay!" one of the bodyguards warned. Melody looked back at them and pleaded, "Can you please just let me see Mr. Ford? I only have a few things to say to him—it'll only take five minutes! It's about something important, I swear. This has to do with someone's life!" Chapter 4 "Every woman who wants to see Mr. Ford says they need him to save lives! He's not interested in you, okay? There's no point throwing yourself at him," one bodyguard snapped. "Get lost! Don't come here anymore!" another said. They looked like they would resort to violence if Melody refused to leave. She had no choice but to get up and trudge down the mountain, looking glum. "It's rare to see such a gorgeous woman. I'm sure she'd be set for life if she were to go after some other rich kid. Too bad she's greedy—doesn't she realize where she is? Even Phoebe Shaw, that award-winning actress, isn't worthy of shining Mr. Ford's shoes, let alone her!" one bodyguard said. "You're right about her not knowing her place, but I have to say that she's a lot prettier than Phoebe Shaw," the other said. They continued chatting as they headed into the villa. … It was already the afternoon by the time Melody returned to the hospital. She saw Clive Zimmerman's attending physician, Tom Filbert, come out of the hospital room before Clive's. She hurried over to him. "Dr. Filbert, how has Clive been recently?" "Oh, Mrs. Zimmerman. I've already made your husband's condition clear to you—we need to find a matching donor as soon as possible for the bone marrow transplant. Otherwise…" Tom shook his head. Melody paled. Tom continued, "The hospital's been searching for a matching donor, but your husband's condition is deteriorating too quickly. He's running out of time. "As his family, you need to work with us. Try to think of any relatives he might have and bring them to the hospital so we can check their bone marrow. Maybe one of them might be a match…" Melody paled even more. Tom continued talking, but she couldn't really hear him anymore. She asked with difficulty, "How long does he still have if we can't find a donor?" Tom shook his head. "The bone marrow transplant has to be done within a month. Otherwise, he'll only have three to five months at most." Melody clenched her jaw; her expression became resolute. "I've already found a bone marrow that matches Clive's, but the person hasn't agreed to become a donor yet. I'll find a way to persuade him! "Please make the necessary arrangements for the transplant, Dr. Filbert. I'll bring the donor over before the surgery!" "That's great! I'll arrange for the transplant to be done in ten days, then. Remember to bring the donor over as soon as possible—he needs to be checked before the surgery." "Alright." Melody nodded. But once Tom was gone, she slumped against the wall weakly. What was she going to do? The surgery was in ten days, but she'd made zero progress. She hadn't even gotten close to Ethan, let alone persuaded him to donate his bone marrow to Clive. Ethan was the wealthiest man in Emperia, after all. A hair on his head was worth more than most other individuals' lives. Even if she did manage to speak to him, how was she going to get him to agree to help Clive? What was she going to do? Melody approached Clive's hospital room. Before she opened the door, she heard her children, Jacob and Jamie Swanson, singing. They were singing an Enolian song that had been dedicated to the singer's father. Melody peeped inside through the window on the door. Jacob and Jamie wore identical uniforms as they stood hand-in-hand before the window. The sunlight shone down on them, and they swayed on the spot while singing. Clive sat up in bed, also basking in the sunlight as he clapped his hands to the beat of the song. The hospital gown he had on looked too big for him because of the weight he'd lost, and he looked rather haggard. It didn't take away from his good looks, though. There was a gentle smile on his face. He didn't look like a patient who was on the brink of death. Instead, he looked like a patron of the arts—one who was enjoying a grand musical. Melody's eyes turned red. She turned away to dry her tears. Chapter 5 Five years ago, Melody had been kicked out of her home without a penny. At the time, she'd already carried Jacob and Jamie. When she'd been backed into a corner, Clive had taken her in. Not only had he helped her quit school, but he'd also taken care of her the whole time. Later, he'd even offered to marry her so that Jacob and Jamie wouldn't end up becoming illegitimate children. He'd helped her too many times to count over the years—she had to repay him. His parents and relatives were all dead, and he now had serious disease. If she were to give up on him, he could only wait for death to take him. He was still so young and outstanding; this wasn't the end he deserved! No matter what, Melody had to convince Ethan to donate his bone marrow to Clive. She didn't care how difficult it would be! … That night, Melody hid in a storage room at Privo Country Club, Tottenstone's most exclusive club. An auction was being held there that night, and it had taken her some time to find out that Ethan would be in attendance. Anyone who could get an invitation to the auction had to be a bigwig in Emperia's business world or an influential politician; Melody was neither, so she didn't have an invitation. Fortunately, she'd heard about the organizers of the auction holding something of a show for young women at the very end of the auction. It was supposed to be a show, but it was more like the young women were auctioning off their first time. Like regular auctions, the highest bidder would get. As long as Melody could blend in with them, she would have the chance to get to Ethan. At the moment, the young women who were being auctioned were standing by in the waiting room opposite the storage room. Melody was waiting for a chance to sneak in when she suddenly heard a muffled conversation outside. "Come with me!" "Listen to me, Ned. I came here willingly—as long as someone bids on me tonight, we'll have money for your mother's medical bills. It's worth giving up my cherry to save her life!" "I don't need you to sacrifice yourself for me like this, Elaine! I love you! I've managed to get the money, so let's go!" "Really?" "Yeah!" "That's great! Let's go!" The footsteps faded into the distance. Melody came out of the storage room. She picked up the clothes and name tag that read "Elaine Johnson" from the floor and smiled as she looked down the corridor. She wished the couple all the best and also thanked them for this opportunity. An hour later, Melody stood barefoot on the marble floor, wearing only a bikini as she waited for her turn. "Next, let's welcome the beautiful Ms. Elaine Johnson, our eighth participant of the night! She's still a college student, everyone." The host's voice rang out on the other side of the curtain. Suddenly, Melody hesitated. She'd never worn anything so revealing in public before. "Get in there! What are you doing?" When an employee saw her standing there dazedly, he pushed her. She was caught off guard and stumbled onto the stage. The blinding spotlight landed on her; she could sense countless men staring at her. Melody stood there stiffly, so helpless that she was unable to move. Ethan wasn't the slightest bit interested in these things. He'd intended to leave immediately after the auction was over, but Wayne Smith of Ditham Corporation had approached him for a chat. He'd answered him perfunctorily while glancing at the stage. Then, he saw Melody. He narrowed his eyes and sat up, the laziness he'd earlier displayed fading from sight. The lights reflected off Melody's fair skin; they made her look like she was almost glowing. She didn't strut and show her stuff like those women before her. Instead, she stood there with her head bowed so no one could see what she looked like. All they could see was her silky smooth hair. But to Ethan, the sight of her was enough to arouse him. It was like a fire had started burning in him. On stage, Melody remained silent, feeling pierced by the men's gazes. They made her feel like she was standing there in her birthday suit. Chapter 6 Melody knew she couldn't act like this. She was here to look for Ethan; she had to save Clive's life! She couldn't act like this! She clenched her jaw and raised her head, revealing her innocent yet sensual face to the crowd. After a round of gasps, auction paddles flew into the air. "100,000!" "200,000!" "500,000!" "580,000!" … Melody couldn't hear the sound of the bidding anymore—she was too anxious to track Ethan down. He was the wealthiest man in Emperia and the CEO of Regalia International, so he frequently made headlines. She'd long since committed his handsome face to memory. But before she could locate him, she felt a strong sense of oppression coming her way. She instinctively looked at the direction from which it had come. Then, she met a man's gaze. His eyes were cold and calm, yet there seemed to be molten lava buried within them. She could sense his kingly demeanor as his eyes threatened to suck her in. Melody lowered her head. He was terrifying. When Ethan saw her drop her head to avoid his gaze, he smirked. Wayne noticed this and stopped talking to glance at the stage. Then, his eyes lit up, and he chuckled. "She's a gorgeous one, isn't she? Are you interested in her, Mr. Ford?" Ethan didn't answer. Instead, he lifted a hand. James hurried forward to await his instruction. "I want her!" Ethan said. Then, he stood up and strode off. Several people had been bidding on Melody, but they stopped when they saw Ethan stand up. They got to their feet simultaneously to see him off. James hurriedly held up the auction paddle in his hand. He didn't even need to call out a price—no one else would dare bid on Melody. Who would dare to do so now that they knew Ethan was interested in her? They'd be getting themselves a one-way ticket to bankruptcy if they were to try to fight him for her. On stage, the host cried excitedly, "Oh! Mr. Ford's won the auction for our lovely Ms. Johnson! Looks like someone's in luck!" Melody didn't know how she was led off stage. She followed the employees dazedly and asked them incredulously, "Is Mr. Ford really the one who bid on me? Mr. Ethan Ford? The CEO of Regalia International?" The employees could totally understand why she was acting like this. Anyone would be out of their minds with joy if Ethan were to pick them. "Would there be anyone else with that name? Congratulations, miss. Come with me, please. I'll take you to get your clothes changed. We don't want to keep Mr. Ford waiting." "She's so lucky!" "It's not like she has such a great figure. She's not even that pretty!" "Why didn't he pick me? That was Ethan Ford! I would've paid to be with him!" "Yeah, keep dreaming. You wouldn't be worthy of him even if you were to give up everything you own! Didn't you hear about the granddaughter of some country's leader trying and failing to spend a night with Mr. Ford? She offered to pay him a hefty sum, too!" … As Melody followed the employees away, she heard the other women participating in the auction whispering among themselves about her. None of their words registered, though. She was still in disbelief that she'd succeeded just like that. Things had gone so smoothly! How was she going to beg him to agree to donate his bone marrow? Would he be moved if she were to get on her knees before him? Ten minutes later, Melody had changed into a white strappy minidress and a matching pair of 4-inch heels. She was brought to the 28th floor. | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878088 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324498 | 1723333800 | 991 | 949279386902962 | 7 | 1.4895026953017E+15 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgaM6op9EH4Q7kNvgH5Q2hS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDL2uRzqPljXqUv8tCTuYjldvWLnWm7AwQ1tAWE_QYw4g&oe=66715310 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YicSkuGzOiMQ7kNvgFstmg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJiNqLLTPCeifXYvg9a5Hs1QggMzysCQ5pNP2mut1aHA&oe=66717A17 | 0 | 3 | 🔞"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. She’s not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878100 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324499 | 1723333800 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878102 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324500 | 1723333800 | 991 | 1647538179348259 | 2 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqVPf_9YhC8Q7kNvgGaArrh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAhl8ScrqHjaMBPs0-KrnBFkxvSNkbCiITJlre72tT9XQ&oe=66714B73 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O7GQ8aQRSUAQ7kNvgGe1wuZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKTYQsmOwuIPXeqo1zVTHui9_O9ie93aM8OLOaZCLQCQ&oe=667159B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophia’s arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldn’t be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. “Aria, I didn’t know you still worked here! I can’t believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isn’t he?” She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldn’t speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. “Sophia!” Adam’s voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I can’t see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Today’s date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophia’s appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like it’s just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didn’t know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adam’s heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfather’s wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfather’s love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each other’s company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. “I made coffee.” I say but they don’t even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I can’t tell if she’s faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I can’t just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? “Sir,” I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesn’t even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. “Sir,” I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. “There is something I need to talk to you about, it’s important.” I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophia’s gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. “It can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.” “It can’t wait.” I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. “Adam!” They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. “Adam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?” She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. “Aria, out. Now.” He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. “Why should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.” Sophia stands at once. “It seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.” She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. “What the hel is wrong with you?” She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? “I can’t believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.” She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. “Apologise right now!” He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? “Why should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!” I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. “I did no such thing!” Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. “You heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.” Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. “So you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.” “A wife I never wanted to marry!” He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesn’t happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. “Adam, how…how could you say that to me?” I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, “In front of her?” “Because it’s the truth!” He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. “You were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadn’t forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.” He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I can’t cry. No, I can’t appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. “I never forced myself on you, Adam. Why won’t you believe me?” I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. “Do not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.” He says and stares at me intently. “Do not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?” He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. “Are you okay?” I can’t believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. “The coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.” She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasn’t hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. “I’ll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.” he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didn’t force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each other’s arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adam’s office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospital’s number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. “Mrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!” A female voice says. “Why? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?” I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. “You need to be at the hospital, your grandmother—” I don’t wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. “Where is my grandmother?” I ask, “Where is she?” The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. “I am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospital’s mortuary. I am sorry.” She says. The world around me stops and I don’t know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. “Grandma…” I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husband’s life. The nurse comes into the room and says, “She asked us to give you this.” I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldn’t think of a reason why grandmother’s parting gift to me would be a key chain but I can’t seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. “Aria.” Adam’s voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. “Adam.” I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I don’t let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I can’t bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesn’t. He doesn’t hug me back too but I can’t find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; “I’ll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.” He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I can’t bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. “Stay.” I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, “Please, don’t go. Stay with me.” I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophia’s side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. “Sophia, are you okay?” He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, “There is something I’ve been wanting to tell you but didn’t know how.” She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. “What is it?” Adam asks, still very much concerned. “Adam…I…I am pre9nant.” Chapter 3 Grandmother’s funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmother’s grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmother’s grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. She’s smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. “Aria, my child, you can’t frown like that everytime or you’ll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!” She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I don’t know what I’d do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldn’t want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. “There are no sweets in heaven, Aria. It’s only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.” She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about ‘The big guy’ and ‘Up there’ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I can’t help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. “I should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you it’s gonna be okay. I–” My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I can’t think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. “Regis.” I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. “Here,” He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. “I came as soon as I heard, I’m sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.” He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adam’s grandfather. “You didn’t have to.” I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. “You’re alone? Where the hel is Adam?” He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesn’t know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesn’t ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. “Did you drive here?” He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. “C’mon, we’ll take my car.” He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regis’ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I can’t stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didn’t come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didn’t need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. “Is it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.” He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. “Thank you for being here with her, uncle.” Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, “Care to explain why you are only just coming?” Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. “Yes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmother’s funeral.” I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. “I really wanted to be here, Aria but you know…” He trails off, running a hand through his hair, “I had to be with Sophia.” The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasn’t around to witness grandmother’s dying moments. “Did you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?” “What?” Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adam’s usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. “Let’s not do this here, Aria. You know I can’t just leave her.” I scoff. “I never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.” Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, “What does that mean? You are my wife.” “Ex-wife,” I say the words without even thinking. I didn’t think any of this through but I don’t care because my entire being seems to agree that this is what’s best for me, “I want a divorce, Adam.” His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isn’t anger or coldness from him. “Both the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.” I add before he can get over his shock and I don’t wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. “Take me home, Regis.” Chapter 4 Adam’s POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearing–and trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEO–Aria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Aria’s cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfather’s overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. “Sir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. It’s more than an hour’s drive from here, we should leave now if–” “Cancel it,” I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. “But sir, that isn’t the only appointment for the day. You also have…” He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. “Cancel them all!” I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, “Get in and turn the dann AC on.” I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driver’s seat and pulling the car out of the cemetery’s parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. She’s the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. She’s a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I can’t even understand. “Find out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.” I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that she’s been seeing other men. I can’t rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to God– My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophia’s name pops up on the screen in a message notification. She’s asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctor’s office. Seeing Sophia’s message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old time’s sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I can’t call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. It’s my baby and I don’t plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I can’t let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. She’s been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesn’t need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. “What do women like?” I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, “Erm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.” I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I can’t even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims it’s most women’s favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I won’t let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 I’m thankful that Regis doesn’t ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolve–to leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I can’t bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adam’s mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesn’t fade even when I bow to greet her. “Why are you here?” Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. “I almost forgot how dumb you are.” Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesn’t hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adam’s indifference, I have also had to deal with his mother’s hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. “Why are you here instead of the office, huh?” She sneers and continues, “My son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you can’t even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?” Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adam’s snobbish sister had to chip in, “She’s a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isn’t she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I don’t even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!” “I had to be at my grandmother’s funeral.” I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? “Is she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!” Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, “Of course, that’s your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other people’s money instead of working for your own?” That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adam’s mother reaches its peak. It’s anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmother’s name from being soiled. “Do not talk about my grandmother like that!” I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. “Did you just yell at me?” she says, taking a step forward but I don’t flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, “Did you just shout at my mother?!!!” Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. “Did you forget your place? You are nothing but a–” “Gold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!” I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, “But you don’t have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.” I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. “You are really leaving!” Elodie can’t even hide the joy in her tone. “Yes, so please just stop and let me go.” She shakes her head, “Not so fast! You can’t just leave.” And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. “Search her!” She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. “Did you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.” I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. “What do you think you’re doing?” I say, my voice shaky. “I can’t just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.” My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I can’t even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I don’t struggle any more from Eva’s grip and she stares at me triumphantly. “What is that? Hand it over.” Adam’s mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmother’s bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. “No!” I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adam’s mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. “Oh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!” Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. “I knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?” Elodie snaps. “That doesn’t belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.” She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I don’t feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. “What is going on here?” He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. “Thank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesn’t belong to her.” His mother responds. “And she hit me!!!” Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adam’s appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. “Adam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?” Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I don’t stop laughing as I turn to Adam’s mother. “I have been married to your son for three years and he doesn’t even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?” I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. “The flowers weren’t for you.” He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely don’t care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I don’t even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. “Mum, please return the bracelet to her.” She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, “I am not letting her leave with it.” Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, “ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.” Adam’s mother doesn’t immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his mother’s mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. “As I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.” I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, “Goodbye, Adam.” I turn around before I can even hear his response. I don’t want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adam’s strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words don’t even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. “Let me go.” I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. “You can’t just leave, Aria.” He growls. “You can’t tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!” “Does this even make any sense to you!” He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, “ You can’t just spring this kind of shet on me.” “It’s not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.” I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. “What about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.” I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old man’s reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I don’t waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. “I will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.” I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesn’t give up as he speaks again. “I won’t sign it Aria, I won’t sign the goddamm papers!” “What the hel is wrong with you?” I yell out my frustration, “Why won’t you just let me go?” He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, “I won’t sign the papers and I won’t accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you can’t just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!” I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. “You have Sophia, don’t you?” I shoot at him and his brows furrow. “What does that even mean?” “Everyone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, don’t forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?” Adam’s mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. “Adam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?” Eva asked excitedly. Adam’s expression don’t give anything away and he doesn’t even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. “Aria, what happened between Sophia and I wasn’t intentional, it just–” “Don’t you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.” Adam’s mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesn’t even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he can’t even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. “Aria, it was an accident.” He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. “Three years ago, you didn’t think the same way. You didn’t think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.” When I turn my back to him this time, I don’t stop walking. I don’t turn around. “Aria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I won’t take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You can’t survive without me!” Adam yells after me but I don’t stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716534000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878140 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333801 | 991 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ❤️😍What happens next👉Click Here to read on👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GS8R84CigV8Q7kNvgGx80N4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAv47Sc75hVdoN-tgSVD-rfAeKTnQ-gBEUytc5L0ppW2g&oe=66716B89 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A81_9g5fi4IQ7kNvgFDBQNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfoeMCXIdNnJx_ya7-nVbSaIWABmGDxGbU5WOGdiVK_w&oe=6671438C | 0 | 3 | Evelyn’s POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. “Pour me another, please,” I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my father’s doctor either. Just as I’d prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my father’s life. Out of the blue, he’d slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasn’t faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my father’s only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didn’t make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that weren’t bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. “Another,” I said to the bartender. “Miss, you’ve had quite a lot already. Maybe it’s best to stop and go home for now?” the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.” As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. “I have the perfect drink for you,” said the omega. “A new brand of whiskey, and it’s strong. It’ll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.” “I’ll take it,” I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. “Very well. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my father’s doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. “Here you go. This’ll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, you’ll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.” “You’d do well, as a brand ambassador,” I said with a chuckle. “All right. Let me sample its glories.” The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. “Tab, please.” It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. “What the heck?” I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. “Princess, are you okay?” I gently extracted myself from him. “Yeah. Fine,” I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. “This is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?” I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, “Oh, Alex. Do you know how long I’ve waited for you to touch me?” I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. I’d know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what “Alex” was she talking to? It couldn’t be my Alex. That couldn’t be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didn’t know any other Alex, and I didn’t think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the room’s furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didn’t see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinn’s voice came from the other side. “You’re not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesn’t even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.” “True,” said a male voice—Alex’s voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? “But she’s the heiress,” he said, continuing. “And I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.” Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my father’s properties and wealth. “Please,” Quinn said flippantly. “She might be Alpha’s daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, she’s no better than a rogue omega. It’ll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, you’re too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.” I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alex—could he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldn’t help but press my ear to the door to hear more. “You say that like it’s a certainty,” Alex said. “Just remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.” So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinn’s son, Kevin. They’d plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. “But enough with all that for now,” said Alex. “I want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.” “Only if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesn’t deserve you. You’re too good for her.” Alex laughed. “Of course. Once everything’s in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.” “No worries about access,” Quinn said with a giggle. “That’s right,” Alex said. “And I’m looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.” I couldn’t take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. “How dare you!” I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinn’s nonchalant face to Alex’s petrified face. “You ungrateful slime!” I yelled. I reached for the vase on the room’s front table and flung it at Alex’s head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didn’t feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like I’d been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinn’s smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. “What can you do about it?” She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. “I fcking trusted you!” I screamed. “How could you do this? And with my stepmother? What’s wrong with you?” “Oh, stop being such a drama queen,” Alex said. “What if I have an interest in older women? That doesn’t mean I don't love you.” “That’s my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dad’s wife! This is the height of immorality,” I said, shaking my head. “I can't believe you! Really!” I yelled again. “Eve, dear,” Quinn said, “you need to stop yelling. You don’t seem well.” I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldn’t feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, “Don’t pretend to care about me. You think I don’t know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you don’t hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.” Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. “I am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?” I stared at her in disbelief. “In love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and you’re claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?” Alex came over and rubbed my arms. “Now, calm down.” I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. “How shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?” “Come on,” Alex said, drawing my eyes. “It's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?” I glared at him. “Join…?” I landed a loud slap on his face. “You filthy pig. You’re worse than a rogue. And you don’t think there’s anything immoral about what you’re suggesting? About what you’re doing? Sleeping with my stepmother… your future mother-in-law?” Alex’s face contorted into a frown. “Oh, stop being such a goody two shoes.” Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. “Don’t touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.” “Don’t be disrespectful, Eve,” Quinn said. “I’m still your father’s wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.” “Leader of the pack? Is that so? You haven’t even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. You’re a terrible excuse for a leader… and a mother.” “Excuse me?” Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. “Are you undermining me?” I shook my head. “Simply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my father’s house, there’s been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.” Quinn slapped me hard across the face. “That’s for your insolence.” She slapped me again just as hard. “That’s for hitting Alex.” She slapped me once more. “And that’s for wishing me dead.” Alex grabbed her hand. “Quinn, please. That’s enough.” Quinn glared at him. “This young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.” She turned back to me. “I’m in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and I’ve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.” I stared at her in disbelief. “Wake the fvck up, Eve,” Quinn yelled. “I make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?” I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that I’d never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmother’s eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, “You disgust me,” then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it weren’t bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasn’t sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill I’d obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 “Who are you?” I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. “You!” I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. “What are you doing here?” Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drink—the drink that had obviously been dru-gged. “Oh, come on Princess.” He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. “You know why I’m here,” he said with a wicked grin. “And your body wants it. I know it does.” I wanted to puke, “Please let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.” “I’ll let you go home”—he started to unclasp his belt—“as soon as you give me what I want.” I backed up another step. “It will be over soon, Princess. I promise.” “Why?” I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. “Well, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.” I didn’t need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldn’t bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. “I need to get home immediately,” I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. “It's late.” The omega smirked. “You know I can’t let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.” He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. “This isn't the fuking palace.” He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. “This is my turf. I do as I wish.” Alex POV “We need to get Eve,” I said. “She didn’t look too good.” Quinn stared at me in disgust. “Are you really worrying about her right now?” I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eve’s messages for the first time. And now, she wasn’t responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. “I’m just worried. She didn’t look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.” Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. “Here. Drink this. It would help calm you.” I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. “I fear she isn't okay,” I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. “She was drunk. That’s how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe she’s out sleeping with some omega right now,” she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. “Wait a second. Did you…? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.” Quinn sighed. “Was what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Don’t accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didn’t do that.” I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. “And why are you so worried about her sleeping around?” Quinn asked. “Why should you care what she does?” “Fuk,” I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didn’t mean I had no feelings for her. “Listen,” Quinn said. “I’m sure you feel like she’ll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think she’ll risk it, knowing she’ll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. She’d end up begging you to take her back.” “Are you sure about that?” Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. “I’m here to help you,” she said. “So even if she doesn’t beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. I’m married to Alpha Carson after all.” She bit her li-ps seductively. “So be a good boy and come undress me.” Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldn’t put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldn’t trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. “I'm sorry,” I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. “Miss, are you alright?” he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. “Help me,” I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. “He’s gone,” said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. “What’s your name?” I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. “Suppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.” I shook my head. “I was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But I’ll try to remember. Please, what’s your name?” “My name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.” I chuckled. “I’d feel safer staying here… with you.” He walked toward me. “I am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.” It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. “I can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?” I chuckled. “I just found my fiancée cheating on me with my father’s wife. You”—I rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.” I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. “A person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.” “Your li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,” he said, and I looked up at him. “How did you know my name?” He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. “Your necklace says it. Am I wrong?” “Ah, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.” “And if I was? Would you run away?” “No,” I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each other’s li-ps, each trying to outdo the other’s needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. “Oh, the goddess,” I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. “To the moon goddess,” he said, “you have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.” He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. “So tight,” he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head. “No. It’s just that it's my first time.” He chuckled and patted my hair. “I’ll be gentle,” he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. “So tight. So wet,” he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. “Shh. Shh. It's alright. It’ll feel good in a minute,” he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. “I need to take a shower,” I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us again… I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous night’s activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. “Sign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.” I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. “You should get up. It's time for breakfast.” I peered at her. “You never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?” Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. “Did you have se-x last night?” Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. “Hmm. Seems like you did.” Quinn said and I looked away. “I have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.” I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didn’t look convinced. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said. “For now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,” Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldn’t it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinn’s right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. “What are you doing here?”I clenched my fists in rage. “Don’t make a scene,” Quinn said. “Just sit and have breakfast quietly.” “I refuse to share a table with this scumbag,” I said. “Get him out of here. Or rather, I wouldn’t want to disturb your happy family, so I’d rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.” Alex stood and held my hands. “Eve, let's talk in private.” Kevin’s gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. “What’s going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?” Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. “Let go of me. I have nothing to say to you.” Alex simply stared at me. “I asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,” Quinn said. “Why can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?” I stared at Quinn in disbelief. “Maybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.” Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, “I can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.” I shot him a glare. “You stay out of this,” I said and looked at Quinn. “Or would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?” “Shut your trap,” Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinn’s discomfort. She obviously didn’t want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alex’s grasp. “I am going to check on my father,” I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. “I'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,” I said and turned to walk upstairs. “Prepare yourself,” Quinn called out. “Your engagement is in four days.” I paused and looked back at her. “Excuse me?” I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. “You heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.” I gaped at her. “What do you mean, the omega she slept with?” Kevin asked. “Her fiancée is standing right in front of her.” He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. “What is going on, Eve?” “Alex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.” Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. “Your mother is a despicable woman,” I added. “One who sleeps with her stepdaughter’s fiancée. That’s how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?” I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. “Evelyn Carson!” Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. “Shut up.” “Let's talk about this in private,” Alex implored. “It can be solved.” I curled my li-p in disgust. “Bold of you to assume I’m still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesn’t know the line between family and se-xual relationships?” “Oh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,” Alex said. “Pfft.” I scoffed. “You're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. ” I turned to Quinn. “And about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. I’ll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.” I nodded toward the kitchen maid. “Sophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,” I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, “What was she talking about, Mom?” I heard Kelvin say. “Shut up, and eat your breakfast,” she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, “I have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.” Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. “Madam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.” I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since I’v done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter who’d poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the ‘higher ups’. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man who’d agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancée. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, “Your breakfast is served downstairs.” I looked at her. “Why downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.” I said with my eyebrows raised. “I apologize,” said Sophia, bowing her head. “The madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.” I rubbed my temple. “All right. I’ll join them.” Only because I didn’t want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. “Just run my bath for me.” Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad you’re not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alex’s face and she cleared her throat “Welcome to the table, Eve,” she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. “Congratulations on your engagement party, Sis,” said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. “Thank you,” I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. “Can I come in?” I heard Kelvin ask. “Yeah sure.” I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. “I don’t have all day, Kevin,” I said as he continued to stand there mute. “So spill it.” He sighed. “I'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.” “I have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I aren’t getting married, and you shouldn’t be begging for forgiveness on your mom’s behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when you’re normally so cold and arrogant?” Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadn’t yet arrived. Quinn texted me, “You should come down with that omega now. The party’s about to begin.” I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. “I’m here,” it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasn’t a complete stranger. He approached me. “Hello, my love,” he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, “Are you happy to see me?” He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. “Wasn’t very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,” he whispered. “How did you find me?” I whispered back. “Coincidence, or maybe you’d call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?” I straightened myself. “Of course,” I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmother’s expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. “Elders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man I’m set to marry,” I announced with a small smile. “What is the meaning of this?” Quinn asked. “Who is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?” Silence descended on the crowd. “Do not say another insulting word toward my woman,” Kian said in an authoritative voice. “Do you hear me?” He scoffed. “You call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.” He turned to Alex. “Won’t you tell them, Brother?” he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. “What are you doing here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I thought that was clear… I’m here to ask for my woman’s hand in marriage.” He smirked mischievously. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did you think I wouldn’t amount to anything after Father kicked me out?” Alex glared at him. “Go back to wherever you’ve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.” “You will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.” Kian’s aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alex’s brother? Oh, the moon goddess! “This is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.” Kian’s aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878142 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333801 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878145 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333801 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878147 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333801 | 991 | 419884320825184 | 2 | 9.8322917290411E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750980002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251588 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431022_1166780181174166_1449615004424045769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssYQnuZpPYsQ7kNvgFVscLC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDB-qo7nOik7jnuesgwznGCIuvlkH9aRbpIxg-8F5MRKw&oe=66714E37 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326607_1101917951061451_218003203580443970_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehlgDggD_gEQ7kNvgHUVQ95&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpWoN9pgj3poQ0eNPkI-1_rI5iQygZQIlD1EuD-VI70A&oe=66714E36 | 0 | 3 | Felix White was my childhood sweetheart. From the moment we were born, the elders in our families had us engaged to one another. I liked him a lot and he treated me well. I had thought he'd be happy to marry me. But I was wrong... At a gathering, there was another lively discussion about my future marriage to Felix. Aunt Mel, Felix's mother exclaimed. "How time flies! A couple more years, Lulu'll be my daughter-in-law!" I felt sweet inside and stole a glance at Felix, but he didn't look happy. "You're right! Maybe when they graduate, we'll have our grandchildren." Mom chimed in. "Mom...Aunt Mel...I'm only 18." I protested. Talking about the child made me feel embarrassed. As usual, my little protest didn't work. They were still talking feverishly. I didn't want to waste my breath, but Felix suddenly stood up. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. He glared at me and spat, "It's all your fault. Stop shamelessly following me everywhere!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I don't like her!" He yelled. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. Dad clenched his fists and Mom also looked angry. Seeing that, Uncle Austin, Felix's father shouted at Felix, "Brat, apologize!" "I am not wrong!" Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. In a rage, Uncle Austin grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him. Felix slumped to the ground in pain, leaving a streak of blood on the floor. He shot me a scathing glare. "Are you happy now, Luna?" Why would I be happy? I was not the one to blame for this mess! If he didn't like me he should have rejected me earlier instead of accusing me of shamelessly clinging to him! I was not shameless. I just thought we loved each other. "Felix, listen to me, I just like—" I tried to explain. "But I don't need your LIKE!" Felix interrupted me with a look of disgust. I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was the reason why he humiliated me, then I would gladly change! I gritted my teeth. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that I will NEVER bother you again." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878151 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324508 | 1723333801 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878157 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333801 | 991 | 858887796262509 | 2 | 8.0915660068031E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211247750770002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715251568 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172556_1000382361510248_6179197804503582160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DCdirLq4kioQ7kNvgF-KKPF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCCKFgq5ZJZzai7-UmH4MqjLYCz0vOlNXX0bjdvgp9i8A&oe=66715925 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144895_433133876341869_1863517058371972618_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lKgVQcIe5G8Q7kNvgGobvUg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCDwUhVOInId8IueYtspJvKnywtRAoxpEBhIP1kky30eQ&oe=667155DD | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. Felix and I grew up together. Our parents were best friends, and they tried to pair us up again just now. I've liked him since little, and he's always been really good to me. But now this good boy glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, all the discussion about our wedding halted, and the room turned dead silent. I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'll never marry her, so you all can just forget it!" His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. It was fine if he didn't like me, and he could have told me in private, yet he had to trample all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … My father was always mild-mannered, yet his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father was the first to react. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "Who taught you to behave like that?" The slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! My son, Are you alright?" But Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. Felix struggled to stand up and turned to leave, but I forced the humiliation down and called out, "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878165 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324509 | 1723333801 | 991 | 1154523119004398 | 2 | 1.4377422001822E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120211289111250002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715329887 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399618_2321306068077367_7267370041668681897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6rKvwV3yDu0Q7kNvgFp84i2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRniqnqpeUwXpVT7QOvBJ5aI9jVWMKSoWOJK9610Jh5A&oe=66715793 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385369_1121751435801135_773466184479018381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSizEfXSHkkQ7kNvgHe4crX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqyTf4ltXMjIcjbG9vonpzYnJPikfSSkLOyTPlx-xpFw&oe=66716A4F | 0 | 3 | My crush actually flipped the table and humiliated me in front of our whole family! During dinner, everyone was engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about my wedding to Felix. I've known Felix since we were born. I liked him—a lot, and he's always been nice and gentle to me. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715410800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878183 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324512 | 1723333801 | 991 | 480124741257496 | 1 | 1.7277413576323E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209611805750689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717743552 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447260728_1518945155389917_2874266976111342341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g0H6jXhQP3sQ7kNvgE9RNJ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIjtzUH7Arw0K21TmMwQNbY7XMlGSb_cgCiETC6vSeZg&oe=66716BAF | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447272334_8058147917584464_4203412527007476159_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ookoAxwxG_QQ7kNvgHhwHZV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzdPoOYVmOAlwLpyyotGUx27W9eeT7Bc-u6JuCpem06Q&oe=66714E88 | 0 | 3 | One Neah “Where the heck is she?” I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don’t make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. “Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.” Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didn’t need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn’t mess around and he had the largest pack. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesn’t tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. “I’m sorry.” I whisper, getting to my feet. “I…I thought I was alone.” I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesn’t introduce himself either, why should he? “Come forward.” He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as I’m told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” I nod, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. “I would prefer it if you spoke to me.” He growls, “I’m not in the mood to play games.” “Yes.” I whisper. I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? “Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “Spit it out, I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It’s rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?” His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound,” I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn’t interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, “Why would someone do that?” If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. “It was a punishment.” I whisper. It wasn’t far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. There’s a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn’t tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what the heck are you doing in my office?” He turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.” Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. “Neah,” My name rolls off of his tongue, “was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.” What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. “Go and get Beta Kyle.” Alpha Trey seethes. “Tell him that our guest is here.” I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. “Beta Kyle,” I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. “Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.” He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. “You’re lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.” Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn’t speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn’t last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. “Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.” I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should have…. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. “Neah is your sister, correct?” Alpha Dane questions my brother. “She is.” Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. “Why do you treat her like vermin?” Straight to the point, my brother wouldn’t like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. “Neah was responsible for our parents' death.” Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. “Responsible how?” Alpha Dane’s voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. “She served them Wolfsbane.” Two Neah Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesn’t squeeze. “You poisoned your parents?” “I was six.” I splutter. “I just made them lemonade.” My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. “Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old.” “A six year old should know the difference between plants.” Alpha Trey snaps “Sounds to me like she was set up.” Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. “We all know that standard wolfsbane doesn’t affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.” What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasn’t lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. “Which only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.” Alpha Dane mutters “You weren’t there, Alpha Dane.” My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. “It was Wolfsbane.” He nods his head. “You are right, I was not present.” Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. “But tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?” “I didn’t ask you here to talk about my slave!” Alpha Trey spits. “Or what happened to my parents.” Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha’s he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha’s, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. “You’re right and now I have a few things to mull over.” “I thought we agreed.” My brother exclaims “Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.” The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. “What the heck did you say to him?” My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. “N..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.” “Did you tell him?” Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. “WELL?” My brother yells when I don’t immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. “But I didn’t say it was you.” I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they weren’t Wolves, they probably wouldn’t have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. “If you have ruined this, you won’t see daylight again.” He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. “Please….” I beg. “He was an Alpha…I… I had to answer him.” My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. “Alpha Dane, I thought you had left.” Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. “I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?” “As I said,” my brother holds his ground, “She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.” “You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!” Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. “If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?” “We don’t….” “Really?” He cocks a brow, “You really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.” “She did do it!” Alpha Trey seethes “And she has nothing to do with our deal.” “That’s for me to decide.” His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. “Where is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.” I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. “On second thoughts, why bother her. I’m certain she is just as vile as you.” He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. “I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.” Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother “We have already agreed on terms.” “Well, I’m adding one. And if you don’t agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don’t want that.” “I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?” Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. “You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.” Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? “Deal.” Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn’t take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. “I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.” He reaches a hand out and cups my face, “Ensure you have everything packed.” He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. “If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.” He struts out, slamming the door behind him. “Get out of my sight!” My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadn’t slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, that’s why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane “Tenth bride’s the charm.” Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. “Shut up!” Eric snaps at him “Both of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!” ‘He will never learn.’ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. “Just give me a second, I need to speak to my men.” The door closes and neither one of them speaks. “She isn’t like the others. Don’t speak to her, don’t look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.” I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didn’t know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. “I mean it!” I snap at Jenson's smug face, “Being my brother won’t change my mind!” He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. It’s barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. “Are you ready?” I call out. “If you just want to…..” Beta Kyle starts. “I was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.” The expression on Beta Kyle’s face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. “Where are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packed” “That’s all she has.” Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. “That’s it?” I stare at him. “That’s all her belongings? She’s what, in her early twenties and that’s all she has?” “What more does she need?!” His Beta sneers. ‘Kill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.’ “What are you waiting for?” I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neah’s reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. “Take her Alpha Dane. I’m sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.” Her shrill voice goes straight through me. “Look at the silly girl, she’s going to pass out.” The blonde bimbo laughs “You don’t get to talk about her like that anymore.” I glare at the blonde, “She is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.” “DISOBEDIENCE!” The woman screeches just as Neah’s hip hits the floor. “How dare you! If anyone is disobedient, it’s that rat in the corner.” ‘Who the heck is she calling a rat?’ Aero growls “You should make yourself familiar with our agreement.” I snap. “It seems your mate has not told you everything.” Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. “All that for your help?” His mate’s eyes are wide “I don’t do half-witted contracts.” Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Trey’s chest “Shall we go to the office?” Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. “You are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.” “Are those my only options?” she whispers, keeping her eyes low “For now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.” She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like it’s fighting to hang on to life. “So what will it be?” “I….” Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. “I….. The office I guess.” “Good choice.” I hold out a hand for her but she doesn’t take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. “Take a seat.” I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. “Sit!” I say it a little louder “She doesn’t have that privilege here!” The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement “Sitting is not a privilege.” I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldn’t see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. ‘It better be!’ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. “And I suggest,” I look at Trey, “You tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.” “Alpha Dane, you are in my home…..” “And you want my help, correct?” The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. “Let’s just get this done.” Trey snaps, “The sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.” “You should read the contract.” I muse “I agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.” “Idiot!” Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. “Done.” Trey mutters “Good, you can get her out of my house.” Trey’s mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldn’t have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they can’t have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, “Come, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.” Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesn’t even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. “Come.” I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. ‘Is she okay?’ Eric links me. “Neah?” I step in front of her and she doesn’t move. She seems to be staring right through me. “It’s time to go.” “Okay.” Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “I’ve got you.” I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didn’t weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. “Keep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!” I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. “Come.” I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I don’t wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. “I’m fine.” She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. “Let me give you a tour.” I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not “The omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.” I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. “If there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.” Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. “So tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.” Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room “Well?” I ask. “I don’t need anything.” She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasn’t fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. “I know you want to say something, so just say it. I’m not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You don’t have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. “You have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.” “Mark me?” I didn’t think her eyes could get any wider. “Yes, I will mark you.” She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadn’t said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. “You….You brought me so that you could mark me.” She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. “If Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.” “I’m a murderer.” She gasps. “Why would someone like you want me for a bride?” ‘Blood’ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. “What’s that? Are you injured?” I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. “It’s nothing. It’s just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget it’s there.” Forget? How could she forget a wound? ‘Why isn’t she healing?’ I feel Aero’s panic. ‘She’s been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.’ His need to protect her was strong. It hadn’t occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. “Show me!” “It’s fine.” She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. “It’s not optional.” I mutter. “If you won’t show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.” Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. “Can.... can we go somewhere more private?” “Private?” I didn’t really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. ‘Office,’ Aero mutters. ‘I was just going to suggest that!’ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. “This way.” I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. “See, it’s fine.” she whispers. “You need to stop saying that.” She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. “No,” I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. “Let me see the rest of them.” It wasn’t optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didn’t want guests to see. More importantly, they didn’t want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. “You need to see a doctor.” “It’s …..” she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. “It always heals, eventually.” “Did Trey do this?” I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. “Cassandra?” She still doesn’t answer me. “That prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?” She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. “Anyone else?” “The pack.” She whispers. ‘I’m going to kill them all.’ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, “Because of what you allegedly did to your parents.” She nods. “I don’t believe you were responsible.” She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. “Because of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah “I…I don’t know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?” I whisper He frowns at me. “Your brother said you knew the difference between plants.” “I…” I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t remember, not fully. “Blood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I can’t imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brother’s story doesn’t add up.” “Oh.” “I won’t stop until I find out who did this, Neah.” His crimson eyes narrow. “I will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.” He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. “Right now, you do need to see someone about the infection.” I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? “Come, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.” Frozen to the spot, I don’t move. Did he just say ‘our bedroom,’? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if I’m his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didn’t seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t need to be afraid.” I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. “Hey,” His rough fingers tip my face up. “It’s just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.” Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. “The alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?” He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. “I really wish you would talk more, Neah.” Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if I’m in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didn’t care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. “Neah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.” Alpha Dane’s voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadn’t even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. “Coming.” I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. “It’s not much, as we don’t have anyone with as small a waist as you.” He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. “You will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.” He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasn’t like that. “Let’s go.” He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didn’t get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. “Raven, this is Neah.” Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, “Alpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.” It didn’t sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. “She will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.” “I have a wound.” I whisper. “And you are not healing?” Raven asks, confused “I don’t have my Wolf.” I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. “Her Wolf was bound when she was a kid.” Alpha Dane tells her. “That’s why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.” My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Raven’s dark eyes hover on me. “Wow, okay.” She grabs my hand. “This way, let’s take a look at this wound of yours.” She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. “How long ago?” “A few days.” I mutter, though I wasn’t sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasn’t hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. “This is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.” “Neah, you need to tell us the truth.” Alpha Dane orders “I don’t know.” “NEAH!” His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. “I swear, I don’t know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind of…. I’m never not bruised.” There’s silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didn’t already know. Now here I was, sitting in another pack’s hospital, revealing the truth. “Heal her!” Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. “You will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.” Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound “Your brother?” I whisper, opening my eyes “Ah, I see he informed you. I’m guessing he didn’t tell you that Jenson is our brother too?” I shake my head, I’m guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. “Jenson is considered to be our brother’s Gamma.” “Gamma?” I had never heard of the term. “Yep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what I’m good at.” She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. “Now this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasn’t changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.” “Thanks.” I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldn’t read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. “Cream, three times a day.” I show him the pot and he takes it from me. “Good, come.” He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. “Show me.” He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasn’t going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. “I don’t want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you can’t remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I don’t want to have to guess what you mean.” “Okay.” I couldn’t say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. “Stop holding your breath.” He tells me, getting to his feet. “I am not going to hurt you.” It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didn’t feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878217 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333802 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878219 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324517 | 1723333802 | 991 | 1402556640428550 | 1 | 2.8823912318998E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210888594870646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11504&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1716446512 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442485268_417302314557004_1623455597791525274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o9t-Q-naViIQ7kNvgGbaLsF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArTO7vJWx8bJJ59fvk51SnLYhj8OLrbrUHpAzNByWVBw&oe=66716F36 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442480714_993193531797256_1849337189330138636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IBxx-WTtfYQ7kNvgE3GJuj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBiEabo7Qo00f8_7daglxJt9XLLtemUog-jG-im5qIctg&oe=667158BE | 0 | 3 | My sister Cassandra bullied me for years and married Alpha King Alexander, the most powerful man in our country. She had a perfect marriage and family. Mom, Dad, and Alexander all loved her. But she died in childbirth. Everything turned upside down. I was forced to take her place to solidify our pack’s relationship with the royals. Although I had hope for Alexander, I knew he never wanted me. "You really are trying to replace her, aren't you?" he said quietly, his voice laced with hate. "No, I swear I'm not," His cold fingers lifted my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his. "You know, I promised your sister I would never love another woman." His words pierced through me. The pain of losing Cassandra, even after two years, was still fresh, and I knew that Alexander's heart belonged to her and always would. "And I will keep that promise to her", he added. "I always know that," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill over. "I don't want to come between you and her memory." "Then tell me why you're wearing your sister’s clothes." His words were still cold and questioning. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to do it, my mom forced me to wear this dress." I tried to explain, "Please believe me." "How could I believe someone who tried to seduce me at your sister's funeral?" The pressure from Alexander made me breathless. "No. No. I never thought of doing this. It was a misunderstanding." I shook my head desperately and argued for myself. "You're not worthy of wearing this dress." Alexander turned to leave. Painful marriage and the crime of poisoning my sister ruined my life again. I ran away with my babies and discovered my true identity, the princess of the neighbouring kingdom. “Who are you?”Alexander demanded from the masked woman in front of him “Alpha Alexander, you have the wrong person. My name is Fay," "You make me feel so familiar," He insisted, reaching for my mask to see my face. "No!" A hand stopped him – it was Alpha Victor's Beta Allen, "Don't touch her!" He growled, grabbing Allen’s collar threateningly. "Alpha Alexander, I'm sorry but I think you misunderstood. She is my wife, Fay" Beta Allen revealed, shocking him to the core. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878238 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324519 | 1723333802 | 991 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Eyh5eZwmHiAQ7kNvgHYCR2y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBDbBK5diLpIn3nwN3dy019F2OX596IrWzCbI-fuJeZOQ&oe=667158E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfcJR2MApiYQ7kNvgG-0dV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHEfhTy9kNYz-XTtLkdx8fDjGqF2jPjJ2wudJYoVTL_g&oe=66715447 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO ― ¡Te odio! —¿Qué acabas de decir? —El hombre miró a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desató una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutó y se mantuvo firme, alzó la barbilla demostrándole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. —Lo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quién eras en realidad, jamás… —sus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre — jamás me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien más hacía que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacían querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonrió y luego llevó sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazón de Sophia se agitó. No había nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazón, así como su cuerpo le pertenecían. Santino caminó lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedó al descubierto. Ella tragó saliva, sintiendo cómo su centro despertaba por él, su cuerpo traidor se rendía ante el toque de su marido. —¿Qué… qué vas a hacer? —preguntó nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos ásperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. —Recordarte… —susurró al oído de la mujer— recordarte a quién perteneces… SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AÑO ANTES… ― ¡No voy a casarme! ¡No! ¡De ninguna manera! ―Sophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardía con una mezcla de miedo y desafío. Norma, su tía, la miró con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantó de su silla y caminó alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. ― ¿Cómo dices? ―preguntó, aunque más parecía una demanda que una pregunta. ―Lo que escuchaste, tía. No voy a casarme solo porque tú no quieres sacrificar a tu hija ―replicó Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentía. La ira de Norma estalló como un volcán; su mano se alzó y abofeteó a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. ―Escúchame bien ―gruñó, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. ―Has sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ¡te casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negó a ceder. ―No ―dijo con determinación, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. ―No voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sí, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que había despreciado en su vida. La única razón por la cual había aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido había dejado; algo que le permitiría vivir en comodidad el resto de sus días. ―Bien ―dijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayó hacia atrás, golpeándose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofá. ―Encontraré la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguiré mis propósitos, Sophia. No lo olvides ―la amenazó con un susurro venenoso ―no eres nadie frente a mí. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantó la vista hacia la mujer que había hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordó las noches oscuras en el ático y el hambre a la que había sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarían por qué soportó tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tía había pagado los gastos médicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazón, Sophia sabía que algún día encontraría la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdén y un odio puro. ―Eres igual a ella ―escupió con desprecio, y su zapato de tacón presionó con fuerza la mano de Sophia. ― ¡Ahhh! ―exclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negó a mostrar su debilidad. ―Tu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tú solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun así, ¿te crees con derecho a negarte? ―continuó Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantó sus ojos hacia su tía. A pesar de que las palabras le dolían profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. ―Ya te dije, no me casaré ―reiteró con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emoción, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonrió con más frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintió lentamente, como si reconociera el desafío de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin más palabras, retrocedió y se dirigió hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. ―Eso lo veremos, querida sobrina ―dijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. ―Eso lo veremos. Sophia permaneció en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tía, desvanecerse, sabía que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y sería ella quien decidiría su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tía intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresó a su habitación y en ese momento sonó su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. ―Janna… ―Sophia, ¿acaso lo olvidaste? ― ¿Olvidar qué? ―Hoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspiró, de hecho, lo había olvidado, los últimos días había estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, quería ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos médicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivía. ―Bien, estaré allí en media hora. ―Ok, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al café. La llamada se cortó con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habían conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habían vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomó su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansión se cerró, Norma salió del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. ―Mamá, ¡¿qué vas a hacer?! ―preguntó Serena, la hija biológica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecían mucho, todo se debía a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. ―Conseguiré la manera cariño, no te preocupes ― miró a su hija y sonrió ―no dejaré que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA ―Los envíos están listos. ―dijo André, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino D’ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintió levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecían distantes, perdidos en pensamientos más allá de los negocios. ―Los mexicanos estarán contentos con la mercancía. ―continuó André, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostro―Nos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este será el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. André observó cómo su jefe procesaba la información, esperando una reacción que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. ―Santino… ¿Santino, estás escuchando? ―preguntó André, su tono ahora teñido de preocupación. El hombre parpadeó, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. ―Sí. ―respondió con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. ―Dijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envío y que haremos más negocios. André lo miró fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresión de duda. ―Eso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos están preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusándote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algún momento tendrás que volver al frente. Además, en la empresa los accionistas están tensos. Ya sabes cómo son. Una mueca cruzó el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrás, se había recluido entre las paredes de su mansión, negándose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentía listo aún, prefería mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente había descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podía ni quería olvidar. ―Lo haré, André, pero no todavía. ―dijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisión irrevocable. ―Necesito seguir manteniéndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. André suspiró, su expresión era un lienzo de frustración y lealtad. ― ¿Qué ha pasado con las investigaciones? ―preguntó, buscando alguna esperanza. ―Aún nada. ―respondió André, su tono endureciéndose. ―Los vídeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretó los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. ―Sigue investigando. ―ordenó. ―Mientras tanto, yo seguiré con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. André se inclinó hacia delante y preguntó en voz baja. ― ¿Ni siquiera tu madre? ―No. ―contestó con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. ―Ni siquiera ella. ― ¿Estás pensando que…? ―André comenzó a decir antes de ser interrumpido. ―No seas imbécil. ―lo regañó. ―Por supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podría mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. André tenía que reconocer que Santino tenía razón. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abrió con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitación se delineó en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenía un porte digno y una mirada que parecía atravesar las paredes que su hijo había levantado a su alrededor. ―Madre. ―dijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia D’ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta años, no podía evitar la preocupación que sentía por su hijo, aunque él ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. ―Cariño, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. ― expresó, inclinándose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. André, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonrió ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenía un efecto en él, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aún residía en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. ―Mamá. ―gruñó Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. ―No tengo hambre y además estoy en un asunto importante con André. Comeré más tarde. ―No. ―replicó ella con seriedad. ―Comerás ahora. ―Se irguió y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captó inmediatamente la atención de su hijo. ― ¿Qué pasa? ―preguntó él, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. ―Primero come y… ―Madre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime qué pasa. ―la interrumpió Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevó a su marido y dejó a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, él era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se había vuelto amargado y frío, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. ―Bien, entonces seré directa. ―dijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. ―He organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creció en su interior. ―Tu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardó un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. ― ¡¿Te volviste loca?! ¡¿Perdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! ―exclamó con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. ― ¡Modela tu lenguaje, jovencito! ―le regañó Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. ―Tendrás 30 años, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretó los dientes y tomó un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. ―Madre, no necesito una esposa. ―gruñó. ―Estoy bien como estoy. ¿Qué te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el día? ― ¿No la necesitas? ¿Estás seguro? ―preguntó Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupación maternal. ―Hijo, tú no ves lo que yo veo. Te estás consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 años. El hecho de que estés en una silla de ruedas no significa que… La risa burlona de Santino interrumpió el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. ―Madre, de verdad que eres única, ―dijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. ―Soy tu hijo y siempre me verás con ojos de amor, pero… ¿No me ves? ―preguntó, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aún más detrás de la máscara. Sí, Santino usaba una máscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le había arrebatado más que la movilidad de sus piernas; también había desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una máscara que cubría la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia miró a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazón se desgarraba cada vez que veía lo que se había convertido. Ella había estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compañera pudiera hacerle compañía y, con suerte, descongelar su corazón helado. ―Ya está decidido, Santino, ―dijo Grecia con decisión. ―Tendrás una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegría en esta casa, y, además, quiero que vuelvas a sonreír. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmovió por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no quería herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, así que tenía que seguir con su personaje. ―Pues me niego. ―replicó. ―si traes a esa mujer aquí, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. ―sentencio ―tanto que no durará unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Además ―pregunto burlón. ― ¿quién se casaría con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZÓN ―Santo cielo, Sophia, ¡estás muy caliente! ―exclamó, Janna, su voz teñida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentó ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pálida y débil. ―No te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado ―respondió con una voz que pretendía ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunció el ceño aún más preocupada. ―Pero eres asmática y… ―Hizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinación. ― ¿Sabes qué? Vayamos al hospital. La reacción de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en señal de detención. ―No ―dijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizó al explicar su situación. ―Estoy bien, de verdad, además… no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresión se tornó triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tía, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustración y compasión, se apresuró a ofrecer una solución. ―Puedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorrado… Sophia sacudió la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. ―No, Janna, sé que eso es para tu sueño de abrir tu propia cafetería. ―lanzó una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba ―Voy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinación era férrea, aunque no podía ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspiró, reconociendo la obstinación de su amiga. ―Está bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ¿vale? ―Ok ―respondió Sophia, acercándose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabía era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tía de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * ―Señora, la niña Sophia, está ardiendo en fiebre ―expresó la empleada con preocupación, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su té de la tarde. La mención de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad fría y calculadora. ― ¿Fiebre dices? ―preguntó Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. ―Sí, señora, desde que llegó se veía mal. Creo que debemos llamar al médico o llevarla al hospital ―insistió la empleada, esperando provocar algún atisbo de compasión en su ama. Pero Norma respondió con una determinación helada, poniéndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. ―Nadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningún hospital ―declaró ―Mejor llama un taxi. ― ¿Un taxi? Pero señora, ella… ―La empleada intentó protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. ― ¿Te pago para que hagas preguntas? ¿O es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar ―amenazó Norma. La empleada bajó la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situación económica y familiar la hacía vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. ―Lo siento, señora ―murmuró, resignada a seguir las órdenes. ―Bien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordené ―exigió Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigió hacia la habitación de Sophia, ubicada en el área de servicio. Era un viejo depósito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdén con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura débil de Sophia, y el odio que sentía por ella burbujeó en su interior. ―Debiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez ―susurró con veneno en su voz. ―Pero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno más de lo que ya es. Norma se acercó lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecía más una formalidad que una verdadera preocupación, tocó la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupación parecía estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. ―Señora, el taxi está esperando ―informó la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lástima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. ―Bien, ve por Tomás ―ordenó Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntó, se dio la vuelta y poco después regresó con Tomás, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresión reflejaba una mezcla de confusión y preocupación. Sin embargo, sabía que no era su lugar cuestionar las órdenes de la señora de la casa. Así que, por orden de Norma, cargó en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metió en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la señora de la casa, pagó al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la dirección que ella le había ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresión en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ¿Era satisfacción? ¿Indiferencia? Solo ella sabía cuál era el destino final de Sophia y qué esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansión detrás de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercó rápidamente al vehículo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. ― ¿Quién eres? ―preguntó el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegían la propiedad, tragó saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. ―Yo solo cumplo órdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquí ―explicó, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desvió hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podía ver a Sophia aún desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomó al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Habló brevemente por su micrófono, y después de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abrió la puerta trasera del vehículo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargó en brazos a Sophia y se dirigió hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresuró a irse tan rápido como pudo. La mansión, con sus puertas ahora cerrándose lentamente detrás del guardia y Sophia, escondía los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abrió los ojos, su frente se arrugó cuando vio la extraña habitación. Se levantó lentamente y miró a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. ―Qué bueno que despertó, señora ―dijo la mujer acercándose. Sophia frunció más las cejas y repitió. ― ¿Señora? Yo… ¿Dónde estoy? ―No se levante todavía, pasó una mala noche y el médico dijo que debía descansar. ―dijo la mujer instándola a acostarse. ―No… yo… quiero saber dónde estoy. El corazón de Sophia latía a toda velocidad y un nudo se formó en su estómago. ―Quiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Salió de la cama tambaleándose y la empleada se apresuró a ayudarla. ―Señora… no es bueno que… ― ¡No me llames, señora! ―Sophia dijo demasiado alto ―No soy ninguna señora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por qué estoy aquí. Yo… ―se llevó una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. ―Señora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que está aquí y ordenó que le prepararan el desayuno. ― ¿Santino? ―miro a la mujer ahora con más confusión ― ¿Quién rayos es Santino? ¿Y quién dice que voy a comer con él? En otra habitación de la mansión, el ambiente era completamente distinto. André, con una expresión seria, le entregó un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la información detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. ―Eso fue todo lo que encontré sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. Él tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; así que hizo algunos préstamos ―explicó André, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. Él observó detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco había algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podría considerar alguien simple. ― ¿Nos deben dinero? ―preguntó, aunque ya conocía la respuesta. ―Sí, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizó esta boda. Lo dejará libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo ―respondió André, sabiendo que esta noticia no sería del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltó un bufido sarcástico. ―Mi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organización solo. André tomó asiento frente a su amigo, mirándolo con seriedad. ―Tal vez tenga razón, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, además debes dejar ir a… La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponía de mal humor. ―No lo hago por ella ―dijo con voz firme y decidida. ―La verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significaría debilidad, y tú y yo sabemos que en este negocio los débiles caen. Y… ―Sus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinación feroz. ―No quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. ―Sí, claro. Créete eso tú mismo, pero a mí no me engañas. El único motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aún sigues amando a Kiara ―André dijo con una mezcla de comprensión y desafío. La tensión en la habitación creció. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazón de Santino aún pertenecía a alguien más. La mención de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una época en la que la inocencia aún formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, había sido su compañera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueños y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecía destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traición por parte del padre de Kiara se descubrió, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso férreamente a que ambos continuaran su relación. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstáculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartían. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho más amarga de lo que jamás podría haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que él creía amar; en realidad, había sido nada más que un peón en manos de alguien que nunca lo había amado de verdad. Kiara había estado engañándolo con su primo Damiano, una traición que destrozó el corazón de Santino y fracturó su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubrió la traición de Kiara, la confrontación fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera más trágica. Kiara terminó muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusión abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabía que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se juró a sí mismo que nunca más volvería a confiar en una mujer. ―Santino, ¿me estás escuchando? ―André chasqueó los dedos delante de su amigo. ―Sí, perdón, ¿qué decías? ―Santino salió de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocándose en su amigo. André suspiró. ―Dije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investigué un poco más y descubrí que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse y… ―André, rio burlón ―acaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. ― ¿Un aborto? ―Así es, tenía una relación con un capitán de fútbol, terminaron y ella se quedó con el paquete. ―Cielos, André, ¿cómo consigues tanta información? El hombre se carcajeó. ―Máximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintió. Máximo D’Luca era su otro primo, unos años mayor que él y sobre todo leal. Tenía una empresa de seguridad e investigación que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. ―Recuérdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. ―Estaba muy molesto contigo ―continuó André ―dijo que vendría en cualquier momento, así que prepárate, tu madre junto a tu tía Brenda serán un duro frente. Santino rodó los ojos y siguió viendo la fotografía en el iPad. ― ¿Y qué piensas hacer con tu prometida? ―preguntó tentativamente André ―Dado que anoche le diste una habitación, supongo que… ―En primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitación porque estaba medio muerta, ¿es que no viste? ― ¡Ay, perdón! Estás de un humor de perro. Y pensándolo bien, quizás la fiebre sea por alguna infección, ya sabes cómo son esas clínicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensó que se te ablandaría el corazón ―se rio divertido ―se nota que no te conocen. Santino apagó el iPad y rodó la silla hacia atrás. ―No hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejé quedarse porque no quería que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA ―Señora, por favor… ―el ama de llaves trató de hacer entrar en razón a Sophia. ―Ya te he dicho que me voy. No sé qué demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna señora y no sé por qué estoy aquí. ¡Exijo ver a ese tal Santino! ―Mi señora, por favor, baje la voz. ―El tono de la empleada era nervioso. ―Al joven Santino no le gustan los escándalos y además tiene mal carácter, lo mejor será que lo obedezca en todo. ― ¿Obedecer? ―Sophia alzó una ceja. ― ¿Y qué se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? ―No, no, mi señora ―el ama de llaves se apresuró a explicarle. ―Es solo que… ― ella miró hacia la puerta y bajó la voz. ―Él no era así, se volvió así. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picó en ella. ― ¿A qué te refieres? ―Bueno, él cambió mucho después del accidente ―dijo la mujer en tono bajo. ―El auto donde viajaban él y su padre explotó, el señor murió y el joven Santino sobrevivió, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedó lleno de quemaduras y… ―la mujer bajó la cabeza ―sus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Además, ahora usa una máscara que oculta su rostro y se volvió un ser amargado y frío. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. ― ¿Dices que está en silla de ruedas y usa una máscara? La mujer asintió. ―Sí, pero ojalá lo hubiera visto antes, no había rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morían por estar con él. ―El ama de llaves suspiró. ―Cuando volvió a casa ordenó retirar todas las fotografías de él, dijo que no quería verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del ático. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenía la leve impresión de que sabía lo que estaba pasando. ―Bueno, el caso es que yo no soy la señora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por él y dile que quiero verlo. ―Señora… ― ¡Que no me llames, señora! ―Sophia la regañó. ―Llámame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. ―Está bien, le diré al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonó el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo había dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalón. ― ¿Hola? ―Gracias a Dios que contestas ―dijo Janna del otro lado. ―Te llamé un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ¿Cómo estás? Sophia miró la habitación y suspiró. ―Estoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ¿Sigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? ―Sabes que sí, ¿ya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tía? ―Digamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. ―Esa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tía… ―Janna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo único que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. ―No deberías decir eso, no sabes qué tipo de herencia es, quizás tu padre… ―Mi padre nos abandonó a mi madre y a mí. Eso es todo, lo que él me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamaré más tarde. Sophia colgó la llamada y se dejó caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensó. Su corazón se agitó y su estómago se entumeció. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeño niño apareció delante de ella. ―¡¡MAMI!! Sophia se quedó congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeño niño que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamándola “mami” con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusión. Por un instante, su corazón se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzó a latir frenéticamente. ― ¿Quién eres tú? ―preguntó, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeño de seis se lanzó sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento después lo apartó. ―Niño… Yo… no soy tu madre. ―Claro que sí ―respondió el pequeño mirándola con ojos brillantes de emoción. ―Llevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papá me trajo una casa. «¿Papa? ¿Quiere decir que este niño es hijo de ese tal Santino?» La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartó nuevamente al niño y se agachó delante de él, dándole una sonrisa. ―Creo que hay una confusión, yo no puedo ser tu mami… yo… Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niño, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. ―Pensé que eras tú, papá, dijo que traería una mamá para mí, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yo… nunca puedo llevar a la mía a las actividades escolares. El corazón de Sophia se apretó, ella podía entenderlo más de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenía seis años, también extrañaba a su madre. ―A ver, primero dime cómo te llamas. El chiquillo sonrió de nuevo y se presentó. ―Mi nombre es Ángelo D’ Luca y soy hijo de Santino D’ Luca, papá parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanita… aunque sería mejor un hermano, las niñas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar a… ―Espera, espera… ―Sophia tapo la boca del pequeño ―Creo que vas muy rápido ―dijo nerviosa. ―Yo… no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento que… En ese momento la puerta se abrió y era el ama de llaves. ―Señora, el desayuno está listo, el joven Santino se reunirá con usted en un momento. ― ¡Genial! ―exclamo el pequeño Ángelo ―nuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintió cómo la situación se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra “familia” resonó en su mente, creando un eco que no podía ignorar. Ángelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, había creado un escenario que Sophia no sabía cómo manejar. Miró al ama de llaves, buscando algún tipo de ayuda o guía en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreció una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. ―Vamos, Ángelo ―dijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeño. A pesar de la confusión y la sorpresa, no podía negar el calor que le producía el entusiasmo del niño. ―Vamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEÑORA Cuando Sophia bajó las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubría casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demoró demasiado tiempo en los rosados. «¿Qué te pasa, Sophia? ¡Deja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!» Se regañó a sí misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguió mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumió que seguramente las llamas habían quemado también sus manos. Siguió mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos más hermosos que jamás hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazón se agitara y que su estómago se tensara. Era un hecho: él la ponía nerviosa. De repente, Ángelo soltó su mano y corrió hacia él. ― ¡Papi! ―gritó el pequeño, sentándose en su regazo. ― ¡Cumpliste tu promesa, has traído una mamá a casa! Sophia abrió los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenó al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizó por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionó a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que haría que obedecieras, esa voz que querrías te dijera cosas prohibidas al oído. Sophia se obligó a salir de su trance. «Basta, Sophia, ¿qué te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sí, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidos» se dijo a sí misma. Miró nuevamente a Santino y agregó en su mente «aunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besar» Mientras el desayuno se servía, el silencio se instaló por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraña atracción que sentía hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. ― ¿Vas a quedarte ahí mirando? ―dijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia salió de su estupor y tomó asiento donde le indicó el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de Ángelo la interrumpió. ―No me gusta el tomate, ¿por qué siempre le ponen tomate a mi sándwich? ―Joven Ángelo, son órdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, es… Pero Ángelo interrumpió. ― ¡Pero no me gustan! Papá, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruñó severamente. ―Te comerás todo lo que hay en el plato, Ángelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicó. ―Es solo el tomate, papá, no me gusta… Dile a… ― ¡He dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta qué… ―Oiga, no le hable así ―interrumpió Sophia sin poder evitarlo. ―Es solo un niño, sea más amable y explíquele. Ángelo miró a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantó y caminó hacia ella para abrazarla. ―Mamá me apoya, papá, por favor escúchala. Santino miró fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotó. ―Llévate a Ángelo ―le ordenó al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomó al pequeño de un brazo dispuesto a llevárselo, pero el joven luchó. ― ¡No, no quiero! ¡Quiero comer con mi nueva madre! ―Joven Ángelo, haga caso, su padre… ― ¡Déjalo! ―ordeno Sophia con dureza. ―No quiere ir, así que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la miró estupefacta y luego buscó la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quién obedecer. Santino dejó sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodó su silla de ruedas en dirección a Sophia. ―Veo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena ―escupió el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendió, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordó las palabras de su tía el día anterior y cómo quería que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabía que su tía Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. ―¡¡¡Lina!!! ―de pronto Santino gritó con ira y casi de inmediato apareció una mujer con el rostro pálido. ― ¿Sí, señor? ―Llévatelo ―ordenó. La mujer agarró a Ángelo en brazos, y este pataleó y lloró. ― ¡No, quiero a mi mami! ¡Quiero quedarme con ella! ¡Mami! ―Vamos, Ángelo, pórtate bien ―dijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeño dejó salir sus lágrimas, ella no se detuvo y subió las escaleras con él. Luego, Santino miró al ama de llaves de nuevo. ―Llévale su desayuno y dile que está castigado hasta que yo lo decida. ―Sí, señor ―la mujer asintió y tomó el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejó salir todo su veneno. ―Llevas aquí solo unas horas y ¿crees que puedes convertirte en la señora de esta casa? ¿Crees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ¿Piensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? ―él formó una sonrisa burlona. ―Pues déjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tú. Una que es solo una fácil que se vende al mejor postor y créeme, puede que esté en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun así, tengo mis límites y nunca caería tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tú. Sophia abrió los ojos con sorpresa; jamás en sus 22 años había sido insultada de tal manera, sabía que se metería en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantó su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento falló. Santino fue demasiado rápido y sostuvo su muñeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetón. El silencio se apoderó del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensión se volvió palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenía la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 18 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878258 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324524 | 1723333803 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878261 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324526 | 1723333803 | 991 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dR24rixeTtQQ7kNvgGTDwJd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4KCiyt4xxr1ssb2UHG8FAjDaqYFYVm23Y3YPplatZJg&oe=66715693 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fJfPbyx2wdsQ7kNvgHVcJNa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMu0cMGgfX5SKVXJgmmx65DJWecmH-cMUNW5tQ0uxJOA&oe=6671678E | 0 | 3 | [Denali’s POV] “Mommy,” I whimper, hanging on to my mother’s limp hand. “Please don’t go. Don’t leave me.” Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my mother’s recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. “You’re going to be fine.” For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasn’t able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. “Please, goddess,” I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. “Please don’t take my mommy.” How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. “Denali.” My father’s voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. “It’s time.” “No!” I wail. “We can’t! She’ll die! How can you…” I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. “Mind your words, Denali,” he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. “But…” I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. “Yes, sir.” Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once they’re gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my mother’s passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didn’t do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my father’s daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldn’t go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldn’t continue to push on. That’s why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldn’t be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldn’t be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didn’t want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Mates… Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denali’s POV] “Dad!” Anastasia’s shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. “Wait!” He gasps, drawing the person’s attention to himself to save his precious daughter. “Anastasia can’t. She’s…” “Already mated to someone!” She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. “I can’t possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. “That’s correct,” my father agrees, coming to her aid. “Anastasia is also still very young and wouldn’t make a good bride.” “Bride?” I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. “Father, who is she supposed to be marrying?” It was clear what my father’s next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. “Rosco Torres,” he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. “He is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.” Us… I almost wanted to laugh. “Then why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?” I demand, unable to control my anger. “Why not just..." I don’t get to finish my words before my father’s hand connects with my cheek, and I’m sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. “Mind your tone,” my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. “I do apologize for her. She’s usually quite obedient, aren’t you, Denali?” “Of course,” I respond, deciding to play the part. “I apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.” Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. “You see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I don’t bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. “I’m sure your master will be very satisfied with her,” my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. “What do you say?” Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. “I am simply a messenger,” he finally sighs. “Whichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.” “Of course,” my father beams. “You heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. I’m positive you will be very happy with Rosco.” “Of course,” I sigh, shaking myself free. “If you’ll excuse me.” I don’t wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my mother’s death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didn’t want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After I’m finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. “Mom,” I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. “I miss you.” If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasn’t even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. “Do you have everything?” My father asks me as I descend the stairs. “You haven’t forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?” “Of course not,” I respond. “I’ve packed everything; don’t worry.” "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. “You better not make a fool out of me,” he warns, his gaze turning stern. “Remember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.” “I know.” Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. “If you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I don’t seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." “Of course, I know my role and what I must do.” “Right, then leave.” Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldn’t be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 271 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878293 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324548 | 1723333803 | 991 | 967875795058328 | 29 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wxmmMXDCgAwQ7kNvgF0nKWl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZGAoKZp5bRF0aivpOLT67URmiQt_jQBmUY56EXnVC-A&oe=6671550A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_sjDoUy-vgQ7kNvgEGuBPB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyoeGXzF9MjYl2T2ad5J-Ta8u28Fh0H3Hoi613iQ786w&oe=66715A43 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked him—a lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him … Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are … Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or … did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix … what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that …" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today …" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better … Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878297 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324550 | 1723333803 | 991 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UvkFXHVSxCMQ7kNvgEXmenV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0mQFXkgrse8T8DMvbeu9SuJ97uWBGxjaGZCsuQ8nUeA&oe=66716917 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VHR4Ny7S5KYQ7kNvgFN0xbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDB8alNiGbkS1GVtmreB7oqLTNCbXx84Ux9zcDXPthblg&oe=66716175 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked him—a lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel … what are you saying …" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine … Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just like—" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any way—not ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 670 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878391 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324566 | 1723333803 | 991 | 447773391323256 | 2 | 1.1775776532555E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117228291694042 | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 120210412405030502 | education.ohio.gov | Learn more | NONE | video | Healthy food all summer! | Free meals for kids. | https://education.ohio.gov/KidsEat | 1717691233 | 1.1722829169404E+14 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447815621_1013331346327496_8050056758350693717_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lQ_6RzmWAi0Q7kNvgHqeUu_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBIhVYtldCIaTi6y1GQGV5tuUBgUGgPyO6OhCopjRe-bA&oe=66715C14 | person_profile | 0 | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447724823_1635618100530676_4580338119168354011_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2ZROSVs0wPwQ7kNvgFn-sSc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB3O7SB0iySqUMeW7TZFrrjDh0uBiPs8tRmxp9gnbsToQ&oe=6671649E | 0 | 3 | Children under 18 eat free and no sign-up is needed. Tap to find a location near you. | Ohio Department of Education and Workforce | 32619 | https://facebook.com/OHEducation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717657200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878337 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333803 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878338 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324561 | 1723333803 | 991 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fR6L0jo9k1UQ7kNvgFHrt8z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD74x6mp9530tNEie-wxFDxWn-zBSjGk94XLQ1EMQf8vA&oe=66715046 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1EC6liJiLg4Q7kNvgEnMk4x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgt1Ch3b0MVpKQqg3zgV_JiWYaA9WcB3qplM7zp8eQoQ&oe=667153F2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 597 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878348 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324563 | 1723333803 | 991 | 835296768415029 | 3 | 1.5774651297689E+15 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209217541290760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11275&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715325296 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441294898_1180747263111147_2886883073852657658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecGS68VqGMIQ7kNvgEYpjt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCM7OZB1VcpqCmb5N22vsAAOBHpcV9e8Aes0onxP2J5qA&oe=6671449B | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339904_7206376719488104_1130482863920157580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yqRoTigZ1loQ7kNvgGbSeTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZwxK95dm0wblbu3PVofyy6VKndSBt4J9eDgixaWjtlg&oe=6671633E | 0 | 3 | “Sir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. I’m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. “What did he say?” The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. “Madam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.” Zora’s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. “Okay. Let’s go.” Zora’s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrah’s stance was clear through it all. “When everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.” Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. “Let’s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but don’t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but it’s definitely not you.” The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Coco’s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zora’s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ Zora’s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldn’t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. “Ezrah is in the bathroom.” Zora’s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. “Who are you?” The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, “Piper, his fiancée. And you are?” “Whatever he saved my name with,” Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. “Oh, Zora. If it’s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.” The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. “Just tell him to call me.” Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. “What are you doing with my phone?” He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, “and I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?” The pout on Piper’s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. “Is it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.” Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partner’s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. “I told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldn’t be seen together.” Ezrah’s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didn’t want Piper’s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, “I could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I don’t want to be away from you anymore.” Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasn’t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. “Did anyone call?” He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zora’s name. “Yeah. Zora. She said you should call her,” Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. “What did you tell her?” Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. “I pretended not to know about her existence.” Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrah’s attention was on the phone in his hand. “Do me a favor and don’t answer my calls again.” His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. “I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent.” Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, “Nothing about Zora is ever urgent.” Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. “Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her?” Ezrah hated to be doubted. “You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her.” Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. “Can you go shopping with me? I didn’t bring enough clothes.” Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didn’t know to send it. “I have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,” Ezrah said softly. Zora’s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. “Did he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?” The butler’s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just didn’t want to see you sad.” Zora’s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husband’s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. “Zora. I’m busy.” That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, “Ezrah, I want these shoes.” “Try them on. If they fit, you can have them.” ‘So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.’ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. “Madam, you are awake. Thank God.” Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. “Mrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?” The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. “How is my baby?” Zora asked. The doctor’s eyes dulled. “I’m very sorry, but your baby couldn’t survive the impact.” Tears brimmed in the back of Zora’s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her father’s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. “It’s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.” Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. “Excuse me?” The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrah’s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. “Sorry, that was not directed at you.” There was no warmth in Zora’s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldn’t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. “Where is Ezrah?” Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zora’s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. “Madam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,” Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. “That isn’t my question.” “Boss left here a few minutes ago,” Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. “Don’t lie to my face again.” Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. “Boss said, and I quote. ‘It’s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. I’m very busy at the moment.” Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. “Thank you, and please excuse me.” Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. “Ma…” “I said, excuse me, Rudolph,” Zora’s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. “Okay.” As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. “Soph…” “Dad, I’m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.” Zora didn’t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, ‘I told you so’ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. “What happened, Zora?” “I had an accident and lost the baby. I’m coming home.” The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, “Oh Zora. I’m coming to get you. Just send me your location.” Zora refused. She couldn’t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. “No dad, I have a few things to do first.” “What is that? Let me help you with it?” Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing I can’t handle. “Okay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.” Zora smiled and didn’t refuse her father’s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrah’s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, “Good news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so let’s get a divorce.” The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldn’t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasn’t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldn’t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zora’s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. “What is this?” Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. “Do I need to get you a pair of glasses?” Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. “Why? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?” Ezrah’s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didn’t care anymore. “Please sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,” she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. “We shall talk about it later,” he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: I’m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You don’t believe me? I’m only with her because she’s carrying my child. As soon as he’s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. “Where did you get that?” He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. “You have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,” he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didn’t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. ‘Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.’ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldn’t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldn’t hurt. “It doesn’t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.” Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. “You want to blackmail me? How much do you want?” He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. “What I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.” She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. “Your father’s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.” This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. “No. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?” Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. “Did you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.” Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasn’t ‘interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? “You may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.” Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. “Trust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.” “I don’t believe you,” Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. “As soon as the papers are signed, you won’t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,” Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. “Alright. I’m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,” he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrah’s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasn’t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, “Are you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?” She couldn’t hear Piper’s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. “Ezrah, it’s time to finalize our divorce in court.” Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, “just a few minutes.” An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. “You should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you won’t like what I will do,” Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. “I have a gift waiting for you at home.” Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. ‘EZRAH.’ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zora’s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, “ZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?” | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878352 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333803 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878353 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324564 | 1723333803 | 991 | 1653365378764186 | 1 | 1.1299075982217E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120209958990690760 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11675&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1717150398 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953216_823292996356634_4340478285056159241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISOpSPYdYZ4Q7kNvgGipZW8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-zIZ5ZlKZewcMb9qNiW_iVDDiM6gnh-QqEW14G_W6WA&oe=66716F65 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447185248_1556463684934292_781436173810956898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PHTxk_XWUHUQ7kNvgHGxmrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCf0LKqEpy3_cI14Whr089bEyF8Fi0UMCvTrg4KcxmRJA&oe=667179FA | 0 | 3 | In a dimly lit room, the heavy breathing of a man and a woman filled the air, echoing back and forth. They were lying on a sofa, surrounded by scattered clothing. In the same room, a woman with delicate features and stunning beauty lay still on the bed. Her complexion was pale, and an oxygen tube was attached to her nose. Although she appeared to be deeply asleep, the monitor beside her displayed a rapidly increasing heart rate. This scene unfolded in the most prestigious private hospital room in Lumina City. The woman on the bed, Hailey York, was the sole heiress of a prominent and wealthy family in the city. The couple on the sofa were her fiancé, Justin Whitworth, and her best friend, Anne Roberts. Two weeks earlier, Hailey had been involved in a car accident that left her in a vegetative state. Justin had made a lifelong commitment to care for her. However, he was secretly having an affair with her best friend right in the hospital room, under the guise of looking after her! So engrossed were the two on the sofa that they failed to notice the alarming readings on the heart monitor. After their rendezvous, the monitor's readings returned to normal. After getting dressed, Anne lazily lit sat down by the hospital bed, wearing a smirk. "Hailey, what good does it do to be beautiful and wealthy? Your fiancé still desires me desperately. You're so conservative that you won't even allow him to touch you. Do you honestly believe that it makes you more valuable to him? What a joke." Anne wore an expression of smug satisfaction. "I know you hate that smell. Well, I'm puffing right next to you now. What are you going to do about it?" Justin embraced Anne from behind, his hands wandering over her body. As his hands roamed, he didn't keep quiet either. "She's practically comatose now. Why even bother talking to her? Why not talk about your life with me instead, or perhaps something more... arousing." "Oh, enough already, you insatiable man. Can't you ever be satisfied?" Anne cooed, wrapping her arm around Justin's neck as they entwined beside Hailey. Justin kissed Anne's neck from behind and murmured indistinctly, "With you, how could I ever be satisfied…" Anne, completely absorbed in the moment yet taking precautions, gently pushed the man standing behind her. "Please, be cautious. The nurse will be doing her rounds soon. If we are caught and our relationship is revealed, our entire plan will be utterly ruined." Justin had always portrayed himself as a devoted lover. When Hailey fell into a coma, he insisted on proceeding with their wedding and vowed to care for her for the rest of his life. Touched by his commitment, Hailey's parents decided to transfer all the assets they had gifted her to Justin after the wedding. These assets included a seaside villa, a limited-edition luxury car, a bank account with three hundred million, and thirty percent of the shares in the York Corporation. The wedding was just three days away. At such a crucial moment, Anne wouldn't tolerate any complications. Justin solemnly proclaimed, "Just wait, our days of sneaking around will soon be over. After the wedding, we won't need to put on a show for anyone. Once the money and shares are in our hands, we'll get rid of this useless person and live our carefree, happy lives..." "Honey, you're so good to me. I love you!" Anne said, holding onto Justin affectionately. The two were inseparable, lost in their own world. They were so consumed by their excitement that they failed to notice the woman on the bed, her fists clenched tightly, her fingernails digging into her flesh! Chapter 2 Late at night, since the York family was unlikely to visit, Justin and Anne no longer needed to pretend. They returned to their respective homes. In the hospital room, Hailey opened her eyes. Her dark, black eyes shone like stars in the night, showing no signs of her previous vegetative state. She disconnected the tubes and monitors attached to her, jumped out of bed, changed out of her hospital gown into a black dress, put on sunglasses, and left the hospital. She took a taxi to Dreamwalk Bar. Dreamwalk Bar, the largest bar in Lumina City, was where her cousin, Luna Blue, had arranged to meet her. Luna had initially become suspicious of Justin and Anne's relationship after seeing a video of Hailey's birthday party. She believed that Justin had ulterior motives towards Hailey. At the time, Hailey, deeply in love, had refused to believe her cousin's accusations. So, they made a bet: they would see whether Justin would remain as devoted as he had promised if Hailey became comatose. Human nature, it seemed, rarely withstood such tests. One test was enough to reveal a person's true character! Hailey lost the bet and went to meet her cousin to admit her defeat. Luna embraced her cousin Hailey, offering comfort. She waved her hand dramatically and reassured Hailey, "Don't let someone like Justin upset you. He's not worth it. Today, I'll find you the hottest guy to make up for it." Leading Hailey into the VIP room, Luna instructed her to wait while she handpicked a handsome man to join them for drinks. Left alone, Hailey sat on the sofa, feeling restless. She didn't want to stay. Despite Justin's betrayal, she didn't want to resort to such methods for revenge. There were plenty of ways to punish a scoundrel, and fooling around shouldn't be an option! Deciding to leave, Hailey stood up and reached for the door. Just as she was about to leave, there was a loud bang as the door burst open. A stunningly handsome man walked in, truly exceptional in appearance. With sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, he had strong features. His eyes sparkled like stars in the sky, especially when they locked onto Hailey... He quickly closed the distance between them! Hailey was in shock, thinking it was a shame for such a good-looking man to be a gigolo. But suddenly, he embraced her and kissed her! Her mind went blank. That was her first kiss! "Let go of me..." "Don't play hard to get with me!" Hailey wanted to ask him what he meant. She wasn't playing hard to get. He had forcefully kissed her, and now he was acting like it was justified? But the man didn't give her a chance to speak. His kiss was forceful and prolonged. It was so intense that it caught her off guard. Everything that should and shouldn't have happened, happened. Much later, the man, satisfied, got off Hailey and began getting dressed calmly. She hastily dressed too, trying to cover the marks on her body, her mind still in shock. What just happened? Did she really just lose her first time in a haze? Luna had mentioned finding an attractive guy for them to have a few drinks with, but she didn't mention this! Hailey concluded that the man she had just been with was a bar call boy, commonly known as a gigolo. The realization that she had lost her innocence to a gigolo made her want to cry. In a matter of moments, the man was fully dressed and took out his wallet. Hailey finally understood what was happening — he was expecting payment! Determined not to be looked down upon, Hailey swiftly took a handful of money from her pocket and placed it into the man's wallet. "Is this enough?" she asked. The man was taken aback, surprised by Hailey's actions. Hailey began to doubt if the amount was sufficient. Her gaze unintentionally fell upon the engagement ring gifted by Justin. Technically, Justin had given it to her, but in reality, she had paid for it herself. Since she no longer wanted to marry him, she no longer had any need for the ring. Hailey removed the ring and handed it over. "This ring cost over a hundred thousand when I purchased it. It should be enough." The man was momentarily stunned, then accepted the ring as Hailey hastily made her way towards the exit. Unbeknownst to her, four bodyguards had appeared at the entrance, but she was too preoccupied to notice them. In the hallway, Luna was anxiously engaged in a heated discussion with the bar owner. Spotting Hailey approaching, Luna quickly approached her. "Hailey, are you okay?" "Let's go, we're never coming back here," Hailey declared, pulling her cousin along as they swiftly left. Chapter 3 In the VIP room of the bar, a man gazed at the ring in his hand, his lips curving into a charming smile. This sight nearly caused the bar owner, George White, to drop his jaw in surprise. Was Trevis laughing? Seeing this man smile was a rare occurrence! Trevis, a business prodigy, was the heir to the influential and mysterious Johnson family. The Johnsons were pillars of the business world, boasting assets and enterprises that spanned globally across various industries, many of which were leading companies. Trevis was renowned and his reputation preceded him, but he was incredibly private. He never attended public events, and there were no online photos of him to be found. His mysterious nature fueled numerous rumors, one of which suggested that he might be gay. Because almost thirty, he still didn't have a girlfriend. And George, who just walked into the VIP room, had a devastatingly handsome face and was rumored to be Travis's lover. Trevis didn't care about the rumors, but George was deeply concerned. These rumors were preventing him from attracting girls. In an effort to tackle this issue, George arranged to meet Trevis and had planned to introduce him to a stunningly beautiful and independent girl, hoping that this would put an end to the rumors. When Trevis caught sight of his friend passing by, his smile disappeared. "What are you doing here?" he asked. George, as relaxed as ever, plopped down next to Trevis, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. A cold look from Trevis was enough to make George hastily withdraw his arm. Grinning sheepishly, George said, "I've got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?" "Tell me the bad news," Trevis replied. "The bad news is that the woman I found for you was involved in a car accident on her way here. She won't be able to make it." Trevis remained silent for a moment, then in a deep voice, he asked, "And the woman from earlier?" "That was Hailey, the only daughter of the York family. She's getting married in three days." Trevis frowned slightly. "And that's supposed to be the good news?" "Yeah," George leaned in closer and whispered. "Back off!" Trevis pushed him away, emitting a cold aura all around him. He was a straight man who had been mistakenly rumored to be gay. If it weren't for the necessity of dispelling these unfounded rumors, he wouldn't have heedlessly followed George's suggestion to meet a woman. Unfortunately, the woman whom George had arranged failed to appear. However, in a strange turn of events, another woman mistook him for a gigolo. The head of the Johnson family being mistaken for a gigolo—how could he even begin to explain that? — Three days later, at the Imperial Seven Stars Hotel, Hailey and Justin's wedding proceeded as planned. Justin, the groom, looked handsome in a tailored suit, while Hailey, wearing her wedding gown and elegant makeup, exuded stunning beauty, even with her eyes closed. Seated in a wheelchair, Hailey was accompanied by Luna, who stood beside Justin and pushed her. Anne, serving as the maid of honor, stood on Justin's other side in her bridesmaid dress. The ceremony commenced with a large screen displaying a video montage illustrating the couple's journey from their first meeting to falling in love. Initially, everything seemed normal, until the video suddenly switched to the inappropriate footage of Justin and Anne. The audience was taken aback by the shocking images, and the dialogues intermixed with heavy breathing were even more scandalous: Anne: "...I want to do it in your future home. It would be thrilling!" Justin: "I'll fulfill your desires, baby. Once we have complete control over Hailey, you can do anything you want. You can spend her money, live in her house, sleep with her man..." The guests in attendance were in an uproar. Hailey's parents were filled with anger as they witnessed their beloved daughter being mistreated so disgracefully. They were determined not to let these two scoundrels get away with it. Hailey's mother stepped forward and, with a trembling voice, confronted Justin and Anne, and slapped them across their faces, "Do you have no conscience? Hailey trusted you both so much, and you do this in her hospital room?" Seeing her son being slapped, Justin's mother immediately rushed to his defense. "Why are you hitting my son? Your daughter is a vegetable and unable to fulfill a man's needs. Why can't my son seek companionship elsewhere? Marrying your daughter was an act of charity, ensuring that she would have a place to be buried and a grave to get in. Men frequently engage in casual relationships with women. What is so shocking about that? Your daughter is in a vegetative state, but my son is alive and well. You can't expect him to remain a widower, tied to a lifeless wife..." Justin's mother, with a face marked by coarse features and aggressive eyes, shocked everyone at the wedding with her brazen unreasonable behavior. "You... you scoundrel..." Hailey's mother, always a lady, struggled to find the words as her anger shook her. Hailey's father, his face pale and his body trembling, declared with uncertainty, "The wedding is cancelled. It's null and void." "The wedding may be cancelled, but you still owe the full amount of the promised money as compensation for my son's emotional distress!" Justin's mother shamelessly demanded. With a smug expression, she added, "No one would ever marry her except for my son." Just then, Hailey, who had been sitting quietly in her wheelchair, suddenly opened her eyes. Chapter 4 She stood up and declared in a clear voice, "The wedding between Justin and me is off. Whoever is willing to marry me today, I'll marry him." "I'll marry you." A man stepped out from the crowd, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, tall and handsome. Hailey was stunned. She recognized him as the man she met at the bar a few nights ago. She never expected him to attend the wedding, let alone volunteer to marry her at this moment! In all honesty, she had only said that out of spite and didn't mean it. But the atmosphere was so intense now that there was no turning back. Her parents were relieved that their daughter was fine. They were overjoyed and immediately announced that the wedding would continue! Justin's mother and Anne were kicked out. The witness, who had performed many weddings and seen all kinds of things, had never encountered a groom being replaced on the spot. Excited, the witness immediately announced the start of the wedding. Everything was ready and simplified. They exchanged vows, put on the rings, and then kissed. The ceremony ended, and the reception began! The wedding feast was lively, and everyone enjoyed themselves. After the guests left, Hailey's parents insisted on taking her home. They couldn't bear to see their daughter leave one toxic relationship only to jump into a marriage with a man they knew nothing about. They appreciated Trevis saving the day and preserving their family's honor, and they were willing to offer him money as a reward. However, they couldn't accept their daughter marrying a stranger. Trevis turned to Hailey's father and asked, "Are you suggesting that we should annul the marriage?" His deep eyes were unreadable, but the cold glint in them and the powerful aura he exuded made even Hailey's father, a man used to dealing with influential people, hesitate. He couldn't bring himself to voice any objections. Trevis furrowed his brows slightly and said to Hailey, "If you regret this, we can pretend it never happened." Hailey replied firmly, "I don't regret it. Since we've already had the wedding, our marriage is valid." Trevis's thin lips curled into a slight smile. "Alright, let's go home." "Okay," Hailey agreed. A Bugatti Veyron was parked in front of the hotel. Trevis walked over and opened the car door while Hailey stood still, her eyes wide with surprise. She had attended supercar launch events before. Being rich is not enough to own a brandy car like this. "Is this your car?" He hesitated slightly before replying, "I borrowed it." Hailey visibly relaxed. "Thank goodness, it's not stolen..." Trevis was speechless. She continued, "Don't borrow such expensive cars again. Too much vanity isn't good. I have a car you can use." Trevis had never been pampered like this before. He felt weird but decided to go along with it and agreed, "Alright." Hailey's father had prepared a seaside villa for their wedding home, but Trevis wasn't comfortable living in a house owned by a woman. He insisted that Hailey come home with him. "Okay," she agreed. Hailey had braced herself for a small, even shabby new home, but Trevis took her to his place in the city center, which was beyond her expectations. The house was huge, spotless, and could be described in three words: high-end, grand, and classy. In this prime location, the house was worth at least a million. Hailey was puzzled. "You work at a bar and can afford a house like this?" Chapter 5 Trevis explained, “The house belongs to a friend. He’s overseas, and I’m just taking care of the house for him.” “Oh.” Hailey put her doubts to rest, but a new awkwardness arose. Tonight was their wedding night, and sleeping arrangements were a problem. Even though they had been intimate before, they didn’t know each other well, and Hailey found it hard to accept sharing a bed with a man who was almost a complete stranger. Fortunately, Trevis had no intention of them sleeping in the same room. He showed Hailey to a clean and tidy guest room. “You can stay here. I’ll be in the room next door.” Hailey walked into the room and looked around. It had everything she needed. The bedroom had an en-suite bathroom with all the toiletries she needed. She removed her elaborate wedding dress and stepped into the shower, relishing the hot water washing away her fatigue. But when she came out wrapped in a towel, she ran into a problem. She opened the closet, and it was completely empty. Of course. She had brought nothing, not even a nightgown. How was she supposed to sleep tonight? Hailey stood in front of the closet, feeling troubled, when Trevis suddenly walked in. “What are you doing here?” Hailey squealed. She crossed her arms over her body, trying to cover herself, but her nervous movements caused the towel to fall. “Ahhh!” She screamed louder, squatted down, and wrapped her arms around herself, muttering, “You can’t see me, you can’t see me…” Trevis was silent. His eyes never left her body. “I can see you.” His calm response made Hailey cringe with embarrassment. “Don’t look!” Hailey glared at Trevis, her eyes wide, trying to appear fierce even though she looked like a frightened rabbit. She threatened, “If you keep looking, I’ll poke your eyes out.” Trevis tossed her a set of pyjamas without saying a word and left the room. “Bang!” The door slammed shut, and Hailey snapped back to reality. The pyjamas were clean and had a faint floral smell, but they were too big. The shirt looked like a robe on her, so she didn’t need the pants. Hailey took her veil, twisted it into a belt, and tied it around her waist, turning the oversized shirt into a makeshift nightgown. This way, she could walk around without worrying about accidentally exposing herself. Still a bit shaken, Hailey felt thirsty. There was no water dispenser in the room, so she stepped out to find some water. Trevis was sitting in the living room, drinking tea. He glanced at her and then looked again. He usually wore dark colors like black and navy blue, and even his pyjamas were the same. Trevis had never expected those dark colors to look so different on Hailey. The dark blue pyjamas made her skin appear even fairer, and the white veil belt accentuated her perfect figure, highlighting her curves and long legs… Trevis felt a fire burning within him. “Are you drinking tea alone?” Hailey licked her lips, her pink tongue showing. Trevis’s mind was filled with vivid images from their sensuous night at the bar. “Yeah.” He averted his gaze and poured her a cup, gesturing for her to join him. “Thank you.” Hailey sat across from him and drank the tea in one gulp. The tea was fragrant and sweet, very refreshing. But one small cup wasn’t enough. She looked at the glass pitcher next to the tea table. Though she felt it might be impolite, she asked, “Can I have a big glass of water?” Trevis: ... He grabbed a large cup and filled it with water, handing it to her. Hailey stood and leaned forward to take the cup, which inadvertently exposed her curve. Realizing that, she quickly covered herself with her hands. Trevis thought she had the cup and let go, causing the water to spill all over him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to! Let me help you clean up…” Hailey grabbed some tissues from the coffee table and started dabbing at the water, not paying attention to where she was wiping… When she finally noticed, her face turned bright red, and she stopped. Chapter 6 “I’m going to bed,” she said, standing up and turning to run away. But Trevis grabbed her arm. “Aren’t you going to drink your water?” She was desperately thirsty, but shook her head. “No, I’m not thirsty anymore.” Trevis didn’t let her get away. With a firm grip, he pulled her back and sat her on his lap. He poured another glass of water and help her drink. Hailey took small sips until she finished the entire glass. Only then did Trevis let her go. Hailey returned to her room, locked the door, and lay on the bed, but she couldn’t calm down. Her heart was pounding hard. She had never felt this way before. Was this the so-called spark of love? Hailey shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. No, she told herself firmly. Even though she was married to this man, it was only a temporary arrangement. She couldn’t actually be with a gigolo who worked in a nightclub. Men like him knew how to please women, just like Justin… She had been fooled once and couldn’t let it happen again. --- In the next room, Trevis took a cold shower to calm himself down. Just as he stepped out, his phone rang. It was a video call from George. After a brief hesitation, he accepted the call. George’s face was full of curiosity and excitement. “Trevis, you got married? Just like that? Tell me what you were thinking at that time!” “Nothing,” Trevis replied, his reply as short as ever. George didn’t believe him. “You know the reporters took the photo of you showing up at the York family wedding today. If this gets on the news, imagine the consequences…” Trevis frowned. He didn’t need to imagine, he knew it would cause big trouble. The Johnson family had people who didn’t want him to marry and feared him having his own heir. Until those hidden dangers were eliminated, he couldn’t let them know about his marriage. The fact that George had the time to video call meant he had already settled the reporters. He called merely to show off his skills while asking for his payment for his 'service’. This was their usual way of interacting—clear-cut and transparent, no matter how close they were. Help was offered with a price tag, fair and square—a principle that had remained unchanged since childhood. Sure enough, before Trevis could say anything, George proudly said, "I handled the reporters immediately. Made them sign confidentiality agreements. There were six reporters, each got 30,000. So, you owe me 1.8 million." Trevis responded, "Do you think I can’t do math?" George grumbled, "The extra is my service fee. If you check my rates, you’ll see I was actually giving you a special offer.” Before he could finish, Trevis’s phone buzzed with a notification: 2 million deposited. George beamed, “The great Trevis Johnson! Generous as usual! Hey, did you two not sleep together?" "None of your business." "I know it’s not my business, but I’m just concerned. The York family may be rich, but they’re no match for you. They’re suspicious of your motives for marrying their daughter. The Yorks are investigating you. If you don’t want your identity exposed, you need to act now. Want me to provide some fake info?" "Yes." Trevis ended the call. Everything important had been said, and continuing would just lead to gossip. George was the best lawyer in Lumina City. He ran a top law firm and owned a bar on the side. Moments later, George called again, but Trevis declined. George texted: You must have fallen for her, right? Trevis didn’t deny or confirm: Mind your own business. George: Even if it’s none of my business, if your grandfather finds out, he’d be thrilled! Trevis: Don’t tell my grandfather. He can’t know about this yet. Old Mr. Johnson was eagerly looking forward to his favorite grandson, Trevis, getting married and having children as soon as possible! To outsiders, the Johnson family appeared mysterious and low-key, but internally, it wasn't without its share of chaos. Trevis didn’t want Hailey involved in any of that mess. She had indeed performed exceptionally well at the wedding today, but she might not have the means to survive in the chaos of the Johnson family. George realized that Trevis wanted to protect Hailey. George teased, “Oh, look at you, playing the knight. She must mean a lot to you. Was it love at first sight?” Trevis replied, “Send some clothes and other items for her over tomorrow morning.” George: “Alright! Wow, Trevis, you are thinking about someone else’s needs. You must be out of your mind! Our Trevis has fallen in love.” Trevis promptly added George to the blacklist on his phone. The next morning. At dawn, George arrived wearing a floral shirt, white suit, and shiny red shoes, looking like a butterfly, and rang Trevis's doorbell. "Ding dong!" "Ding dong!" "Ding dong..." By the third ring, Trevis, wearing pyjamas and sporting noticeable dark circles under his eyes, opened the door. “Pulled a all-nighter, huh?” George asked with a suggestive grin, his curiosity burning brightly. "Get lost," Trevis snapped. "Come on, spill the details. Don't be so stingy..." Trevis took the bags from George and slammed the door shut. That’s right, he was being stingy. Sort it out. Chapter 7 “Did someone come by?” Hailey asked as she emerged from her room. She noticed the bags in Trevis's hand. He handed them to her. “Your clothes. Go try them on.” “You bought me clothes?” Hailey was delighted. She had been worried about what to wear out, and Trevis had solved the problem. “Thank you, honey,” Hailey said naturally. When Trevis didn’t respond, she felt a bit awkward. Her face turned a cute shade of pink. She quickly took the clothes and hurried back to her room. The bags contained everything she needed, from underwear to outerwear, all in her size. The thought made Hailey blush even more. When she came out dressed, Trevis's eyes lit up. She wore a white, waist-cinching dress that highlighted her perfect figure. It was tasteful, elegant yet lively. The combination of purity and allure on her was striking, creating an indescribable charm. Trevis felt a spark of arousal igniting inside him. He took a step forward, but Hailey stepped back and held up her phone. “My parents want us to come over for a meal. Can we go now?” “Didn’t we agree to go back after three days?” Trevis asked, furrowing his brows slightly. Hailey replied, “Yes, but my parents said they have something important to discuss with us today. Are you available?” If he didn’t want to go, she would go by herself. She understood that her parents were worried about her. Yesterday's wedding had been so dramatic that it felt like something out of a soap opera, and anyone would find it hard to accept. Last night, Mr. and Mrs. York didn’t sleep at all. They were busy investigating their new son-in-law's background. The investigation revealed that Trevis was an ordinary worker with no bad habits, no parents, and not even any friends. He only had a grandfather, and the two of them depended on each other. His grandfather had raised him by collecting scrap. Trevis’s background was exceptionally clean, almost like a blank sheet of paper. This reassured the Yorks somewhat. However, the Yorks still want to observed him more. That’s why they called their daughter for a meal. Trevis understood their intentions perfectly. The information the Yorks had found was all prepared by George. Knowing the Yorks wanted to get to know him better and understanding their concern for their daughter, Trevis agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.” “Really? Thank you... uh, thank you!” Hailey wanted to call him “honey” but remembered last night’s awkwardness and changed her words at the last moment. “Call me ‘honey,’” Trevis said, surprising even himself. Why did he make such a strange request? Growing up, terms like “honey” and “sweetheart” were absent from his household. Everyone was always serious, addressing each others in formal way. The word “honey” was foreign to him... but why did it feel so endearing? Despite its unfamiliarity, he liked this term. “Okay, honey. Let’s go now. Oh, you don’t know, my mom makes the BBQ ribs. They’re unbelievably delicious. I haven’t had them in two weeks, and I even dreamed about them last night. You’re going to love them!” Hailey bounced over to Trevis, grabbing his arm and shaking it with excitement. She was eager to go home. Trevis gently pulled his arm away and said, “Wait a moment. I need to get some gifts.” As a new son-in-law visiting his in-laws for the first time, it was customary to bring gifts. Trevis didn’t want to be impolite. “We can just get some fruit on the way.” Hailey suggested. She knew Trevis worked at a bar and probably didn’t earn much. She didn’t want him to spend too much money but also didn’t want to hurt his pride by saying so directly. On their way, they passed a fruit store. Trevis asked Hailey to wait in the car while he went inside. Unexpectedly, trouble came to Hailey. Someone suddenly opened the driver’s door and got in. It was Justin. Chapter 8 "How dare you show your face here? Get out!" Hailey glared at him. Justin wore a shameless smile as he grabbed Hailey's hand. "Hailey, I love you. It was Anne who seduced me. I only made a mistake that any man might make. I've already broken up with her. Let's start over and build a life together." She quickly pulled her hand away in disgust. "Who wants to start over with you? I already have a husband. Stop bothering me." "You mean the guy who showed up at the wedding yesterday?" Justin's teeth clenched with jealousy at the thought of Trevis. That man had appeared out of nowhere and gotten him thrown out of the wedding. Justin didn't think he was wrong for cheating. He only hated that someone else had ruined his plans. He persisted, "Hailey, I know you love me. You found another man just to make me jealous. Come on, stop acting like a child. You embarrassed me yesterday, but let's call it even and never mention it again, okay? "Anne has already left Lumina City. She won't be part of our lives anymore. Let's start over..." He thought he could brush off the incident with a few sweet words like he used to. Justin had it all planned out in his mind, but Hailey had long seen through his unpleasant facade. She sneered, "Start over? In your dreams! I'd rather marry a pig or a dog than marry you, Justin. Give up on that idea." Hailey was usually gentle, but once she made up her mind, there was no turning back. Seeing that reconciliation was hopeless, Justin immediately resorted to insults. "My mom was right, you're just a giglet. What kind of wedding swaps the groom at the last minute? You and that guy were surely engaging in an affair all along, causing me to lose my reputation and money... Hailey, you owe me compensation for the emotional distress you caused. I won't let the humiliation I suffered yesterday go unpunished!" Hailey didn't waste words. She slapped him hard across the face. "Get out!" Justin gritted his teeth. "If I can't have you, no one else will." He suddenly grabbed her, pressing his foul-smelling mouth towards her face. Hailey struggled desperately, pushing and kicking. But a woman's strength couldn't match a man's, and she was about to be forcibly kissed by Justin. At that critical moment, a cold gust of wind swept in as the car door swung open. Justin was yanked out by the scruff of his neck and punched squarely in the face. Dazed, he saw stars and felt more rage than pain. "Get lost! This is between me and my wife. It's none of your business." Trevis's sharp eyes narrowed as he stepped closer. "Who are you calling your wife, uh?" His powerful presence and icy stare made Justin tremble with fear. "You... you just wait, this isn't over!" Justin stammered before scrambling away. Trevis watched him go, a flash of anger crossing his face before his expression returned to normal. He turned back to Hailey. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, thank you!" "I'm your husband. No need to thank me." During the scuffle with Justin, Hailey's clothes had gotten wrinkled. Not wanting her parents to worry, she suggested going to the mall to get a new outfit. Trevis agreed and accompanied her, taking her to his favorite store. Hailey gasped as they walked in. This store was high-end, exclusive, and membership-based. Hailey asked, "How do you have a membership to this store?" | Galaxy in the Book | 74 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878442 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333804 | 991 | 262644940239122 | 4 | 3.347684396428E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511654920227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079470 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448148922_988728832873915_496291448712956662_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SGrnnfYFfysQ7kNvgHMtXmE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDtayX-95bNohSQYXPJ35t9FP6MNda-aeRR0GkXm6FG4Q&oe=66716DD0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448146426_450315987751200_9145025680088548880_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-s6ifnVM2T4Q7kNvgEdZa6Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCa-Gl70yPrVcRSOG3ik-osJ_MszGS-HRa4AGCG24425g&oe=66715B02 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878475 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333804 | 991 | 431037279814214 | 2 | 1.0018409449862E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234668520109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897653 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447663954_7609635769143202_5579413877676856383_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jkW5NdCNFucQ7kNvgE5yL_M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC18NlCcH8Va4PVAfXuFmAK6dbQ6huBX0q-dzV5SBH7Hg&oe=667172BC | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447638299_821525493372932_3837822327250964833_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4X2tpsfEvtoQ7kNvgF-WxcB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA61eGOzS0isrVIy1klHcWdXed__UDP3ENueKEJw5vTJQ&oe=66714D21 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878474 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333804 | 991 | 428605753350662 | 4 | 1.6321953742655E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179750580571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075769 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200591_444340628347637_5866207714274298_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X3Ctksw8kFoQ7kNvgHIsnQs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB8WbY8zMNWqaB4jz1qRmXQ6wKAto1wuDFQhTum3L8dOA&oe=66716E53 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448179348_1189000765848572_3101349255737162099_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=27awTUym4rwQ7kNvgHw1p82&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBolKIlGg0Y50i09Z8J_ZITvacM0I7i5pVlh_ZoErrInQ&oe=66717706 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878476 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333804 | 991 | 431945156285165 | 2 | 2.464755010389E+15 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266854520109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076299 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447784853_1012080283099138_8824689345700277596_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ztHc9TdES-4Q7kNvgE4rD6L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBBSfvho55_EiLNP3hgH9GR-GcVxDoMV5nLvwABhGUysQ&oe=667172DB | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447970823_1400153650662235_7037962362598791326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w3IyP3ER44AQ7kNvgGLIsA4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDOrmAPZtTaVDcOMIl0QDAE7HUvl3LRJL_pcbjNDVH76w&oe=667156BC | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878481 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333805 | 991 | 434756329342770 | 1 | 4.7536512830657E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208223863520571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718255693 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448272798_1507525306553007_4838568341863984615_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QD2mC-7Nt4wQ7kNvgFvK1Mn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYARvgFKoIz5S7P15ojse-WgH1rljWBloE1N1XrlSXHHCQ&oe=66714CA5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448404595_1511878286399577_7031428856726039404_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0GlS_hCmUeEQ7kNvgHn2oMK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCtqvT3VBwflEVWBT_JLcc71y1D4sRphLE3rlrwlftwRA&oe=66715F8B | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878496 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333805 | 991 | 476504638081069 | 2 | 8.2063796292552E+14 | 1718089200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266803920109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076266 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447896229_770385418551649_2136126669825090937_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1X9IPxw_J9QQ7kNvgGLLXAH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDyf2P1n96KDXZIs1k_kqduxXWaHyMNmvGMfLRSHVVgHQ&oe=66715723 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448164426_282776894928628_3538244175741781818_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ry7ztEGjAnoQ7kNvgHqmTu5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAf4ORu8KCdq_4zPXjx4voRLfYTBQfdCk7HS25BzaPxKQ&oe=66715CFB | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878555 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333805 | 991 | 832000084998341 | 1 | 4.5966803667412E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209234670910109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1717897661 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448090056_835189431819433_1415678050830310230_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i3UxgGb78kYQ7kNvgHPGdn8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBYpS9c1FiXN37vC4o0xMFebBiGK825UXEJ3EVxh7fEiA&oe=667176CE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447964860_322090200940574_3265173026034966321_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq_qOwRM8tIQ7kNvgEIiuxt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAdHdSypKoHjuDM__sfpCDTelou3J_rbBgLBLQSD0vOBQ&oe=6671767D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878577 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324570 | 1723333806 | 991 | 969687794655796 | 2 | 1.1259490118568E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179902130571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075899 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448165350_1155184485811562_6396982367098095335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oB2_g_OSOc4Q7kNvgE8daJ3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7aO7rBs_a_Q3KY8CLCqEyDmGDEKi2lZCJy5bfIRzgJQ&oe=6671593C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200342_7575693795816929_5007544627261817718_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ttVx3Z8XJTMQ7kNvgHZoTpg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcgC6wcGxI27xyE9-j6q3ZdXNOhBwFiUQaDFChvYQ7Eg&oe=66716F40 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878611 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333806 | 991 | 1106791797076870 | 2 | 9.8957551650357E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208911896040331 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c3-0609-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=985743679749990 | 1718079240 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448096616_807757911313432_4747387765721608252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WK28cSCCsdYQ7kNvgGpm3iX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDgcoHHqv6j9-7zJSi4r_ArAIHblsogVefFBjhBAZ7NDQ&oe=66714667 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448162039_1263206781325732_3935171435065352848_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QdXTY7u8MC4Q7kNvgGwZAhx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDiWgeKQI4aShm5QcyxGBOSx11X5Jy1pyQaCDwUqBftQg&oe=667159B3 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878553 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333806 | 991 | 829003612020743 | 2 | 8.755257910805E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267149250109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076646 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448153288_798177949082392_6897684280560876101_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K0_ulH2nClkQ7kNvgG6fuix&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCyKARJOwjKiUylMveeiR5SglF4OLcIxUJCFpThYgHpGQ&oe=6671531B | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448184702_321425001015192_5124568178646940474_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nijUjxCKImsQ7kNvgEIUFRT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC96uimOsba1RARhyQvi8ge7aXSDWyZlKSCBLkNYMhLlw&oe=66717035 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878441 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324567 | 1723333806 | 991 | 250924288109081 | 1 | 1.910355699404E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511466880227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079156 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447788399_500033895688838_7186706798205071869_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h-fPMqESJC0Q7kNvgGz5AKB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBfj445nE5iMOeo5hm29XcAdBNjobcQ7bQJiT3FyjEpdQ&oe=66715B64 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448014154_1895650117570258_6100891120242580594_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vMXoiakw3BoQ7kNvgFKELBM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAvJl5uhm8vA0RrsTNsb21MU3qNxQxtN4lUOgfkXA_ccw&oe=66715588 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878454 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333806 | 991 | 354135667345278 | 6 | 3.7405889328241E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146769680571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897299 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447891112_1287575939313951_4274777137712235013_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OAPwfqw8mT8Q7kNvgFvCU4U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAirE-d3PcSdkYqD7e3hEC4lIDFfPz8l-_TYJJEbsMb8g&oe=66715659 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448100121_1420974541926371_882030046051466841_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_P-O90khF04Q7kNvgESYRTX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0UbUE0FGkwmlLBP336AupQhYNBXnTfZ5hvvf7yvXLWw&oe=66715D38 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878470 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324568 | 1723333806 | 991 | 424243860442235 | 2 | 1.3909481047909E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267195270109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076694 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447903864_1303349874385468_6264982056898720863_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mhNOlPSqWxYQ7kNvgE0MwJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAotqoj48aRyrWn6H-tOIUwQBkCjCyQAelm1N2saRGgTA&oe=66714F56 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448148920_468824328886133_8955829237050607535_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xcuaQs3tI38Q7kNvgHkleyZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsKUlb0qNGRs97sZ0eKwPcoyja9f1mvDL9vf1TQnxOVg&oe=667161E3 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878613 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324571 | 1723333806 | 991 | 1119042752544027 | 1 | 6.8399985720084E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511539840227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079253 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448047837_832423921577606_1828778495034940006_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mx_4ErODk6AQ7kNvgGiZ3dO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBqyw2APzXo_3fhwGxk3sd06Sz1xKkGE5s9MQKbeIkjfg&oe=66717814 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448051200_1001169951594610_3596294410326609872_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=osp975TFiWIQ7kNvgGICmoQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBdzgGRA6qpFwjFOhYxRP22tPj4oZy5e7SphF-iRZn4Kw&oe=66717B18 | 0 | 3 | She was just a deal between her stepbrother and the mafia boss. Unexpectedly, the coldhearted man would lend a helping hand when her stepbrother beat her up. She gradually fell in love with him...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878447 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 3:00 AM | 1718324567 | 1749369642 | 991 | 321689477650882 | 3 | 3.1031878214636E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180180860571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076242 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448179344_444402958362262_128318081672568268_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pqx9CN-Id_cQ7kNvgFqr02b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD07lTKAFhRZQvDjjJMwa-0Fj-f3H4g22246amnfeqVwQ&oe=667168C5 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448200525_1175891290221016_4523092394983690222_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6xTxoBxRhHIQ7kNvgGQOEnL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqhROYQb8S1CgD-TN-N5dtu5CxzT2JPS3Y4l6cT1vB9A&oe=66717110 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878509 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 8/10/24, 6:50 PM | 1718324569 | 1723333807 | 991 | 490077003455564 | 2 | 4.7129190863587E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146844630571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897577 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447819391_762045199457282_7945153537334424667_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eAmZ9Gbfww4Q7kNvgFrHmNC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYABNSYDkGMetWIxQptozOXA-YaVBtbAIi3gavgRktm4PQ&oe=667158C0 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447822696_479543961304434_3036296530216781150_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e8PObGy-Tz8Q7kNvgH7YYRL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBU_duWeWjopEWOySXbS2HUjXdPCVL1HmwM7xkxklQy2g&oe=667168D8 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878584 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/29/25, 3:07 AM | 1718324570 | 1738141633 | 991 | 982748246482042 | 2 | 4.2859222009459E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266447250109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075842 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448246618_395817540126851_5312846597787644269_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YT55qI2pcaYQ7kNvgGsrrmo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCNOQHQdMxu6mbU1wVde_5F4KN4y09ig5_TSbARNA5wfg&oe=6671659A | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448175815_502300522125724_5049282077988147989_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4VEN4Em6jL8Q7kNvgFmw8Bm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYASR0_kwRys1nBdJFd85Rz1_r9nTb8s0G0Am588fiuskw&oe=667171FF | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878588 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/3/25, 5:26 PM | 1718324570 | 1748989606 | 991 | 987135692662255 | 2 | 1.4845193254867E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180032290571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076064 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448087776_465306536082955_5743355495019190477_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xaGQmqWVCD8Q7kNvgGDo1BT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA6iwGelsYjUBkbdljJfOTX0J-VONDCGwrpyWzyi8KFJg&oe=66714F23 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448204732_776085041306592_2333745191159000224_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_hXRVZNe0R8Q7kNvgGu0byI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAAu_qykxMoWP7pMGKlqP4hFOpRoDdwK5P2g6p0RAsfMg&oe=66715979 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878494 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/30/24, 7:44 AM | 1718324568 | 1735566245 | 991 | 473796465135596 | 2 | 1.1546553591229E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180011670571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076040 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448021922_1953114875130057_925765631835343259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ja_77smgEloQ7kNvgHvF_GK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAOaMiVqNmCe1ZvtMp6zqnDxHnJvbm50oy-ye3CBW52rQ&oe=6671688E | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448048486_8358191497532413_6291617298318964795_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=baaBoEg1VTAQ7kNvgE3OEk1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDtRMZ05_ufCoIrgmMEVuxV781XjS3D1RMwsH8_Vm4v9g&oe=667156C6 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878569 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/24/24, 3:19 PM | 1718324570 | 1735075174 | 991 | 920127510125078 | 1 | 4.8329206435585E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511693510227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079559 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447966482_485036357277950_3591763474561358369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WGuezgxrDbUQ7kNvgEVpVhK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDw6VehT1WrDFa7QUmJXDy6hOOYvoKyp0UP5IlwLTPCjw&oe=6671456D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447898496_1232841174351338_1820177782161873719_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EX8HMNFDeqUQ7kNvgFpYXVl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDj4emgJ2YDt86KknqBZ0EUb4_I7lRWY5rWJMmy83bl2A&oe=66714A07 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878460 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/30/24, 3:47 PM | 1718324568 | 1735573620 | 991 | 377280381507784 | 1 | 8.2935005244841E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209511641910227 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-c2-0607-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1758242218037720 | 1718079450 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447903282_3682139288718717_5303086106136570277_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mPCYghRCzTYQ7kNvgFmMS9o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCq6Ua6zQOabPLhmBHlZ_Lc5nM5UKAsfj1EcHxMD-sLuQ&oe=66715CA7 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447964782_1092667691804245_1356125319919912817_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FRSFNEAIwZYQ7kNvgFfjRHi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVXuc620AbR9B9Z4aO0TQElRRn8Vh0PFlEkxb_Eq14og&oe=6671726D | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1877755 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:21 PM | 2/3/25, 4:11 PM | 1718324463 | 1738599104 | 991 | 752205173483927 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 104992632509232 | 0 | HeartlyLove | 120209492983700724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | SolarGuard™ 4 in 1 Bug Zapper - 40% Off Until Midnight | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/solarguard%E2%84%A2-bug-zapper-your-ultimate-shield-against-bugs | 1718171000 | 1.0499263250923E+14 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448307083_1149348066116855_4280985484339892401_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CgbLWHMjoOYQ7kNvgE1_2Jg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBYDE3AyTvjd0SnnF96-HO-K0uerbpj8FQLupWuVxhEhw&oe=667153C0 | person_profile | 0 | HeartlyLove | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448317790_763491415997622_2574634996763429445_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k8upYU0vTJ4Q7kNvgEvSxyZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaW06hd3kreMbcT-ofXe1YqnNXJS2GtRdNOpaPpJKUwA&oe=66714902 | 0 | 3 | 🦟 Transform your outdoor experience with the Norvure SolarGuard™ Bug Zapper.<br /> <br /> 🔋 Enjoy advanced solar and USB charging with a robust 4000mAh battery for long-lasting protection.<br /> <br /> 💡 Eliminate mosquitoes, flies, and gnats instantly with a 360° UV light and 4200V enhanced voltage.<br /> <br /> 🌟 Multi-functional design serves as a bug zapper, lighting lamp, and dynamic atmosphere light.<br /> <br /> ⚡️ Smart control technology with dusk-to-dawn sensor for hassle-free operation.<br /> <br /> 👇 Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | HeartlyLove | 735 | https://facebook.com/100089641703840 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878445 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 2/5/25, 9:45 PM | 1718324567 | 1738791900 | 991 | 317424774639108 | 1 | 1.1827987429106E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 272723359246567 | 0 | Mo-TV | 120208912816980331 | fbweb.moboreels.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Después de un día duro, relájate viendo más vídeos~ | https://fbweb.moboreels.com/12476375-fb-y5-0606-sp-core1-video.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=141683&accid=243380358820866&jump=1 | 1718084786 | 2.7272335924657E+14 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448088974_1007361637648888_9199490961128721107_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jR4Xrclau2oQ7kNvgGozQF2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD61XGJquw913rtfnFjp-SExe1Q1OYt8x_aRU3QZAAJbg&oe=66717752 | person_profile | 0 | Mo-TV | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448216973_8286272074734228_2335362677522233687_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PQEu3UXVxtcQ7kNvgHaqEuO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYASZm0VRUIQIovlKDmDqcLzoMQElpKXnR-1g60lEGzQvg&oe=667161D3 | 0 | 3 | Episodios de 1 minuto, tramas inverosímiles y nuevos episodios que se actualizan diariamente. Haga clic abajo para ver la serie completa. | Mo-TV | 2364 | https://facebook.com/61556983348059 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878386 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/30/24, 1:44 PM | 1718324566 | 1735587898 | 991 | 1137126870670057 | 3 | 1.7389633665105E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120215999697310151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | image | Hire World-Class Singers Now! | Click here 👉 | https://vocalfy.com/hire-singers | 1717772285 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448009355_477754138107317_4272024937909357515_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vM-AoGoins4Q7kNvgF4nTxI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDSGkM0FeCpZB-02mQp2ZcB9BAe2fQAoyCcuG8ASquHRA&oe=66715CB7 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447898697_982712873038490_80132149125275866_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pF6ynvflKroQ7kNvgHSg9r4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC5grtV8DdbjTIx5p1nO5BcTgjL54qZV4rFkQjo3IStAQ&oe=66714B2E | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low-quality vocals? <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Hire world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy. <br /> Our singers have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal…<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> So you know you’re getting the best quality out there. <br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free<br /> ✅ Fast delivery in 3-10 days<br /> ✅ 100+ singers and rappers<br /> ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀<br /> Find the perfect singer for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fvocalfy-hire-singers&h=AT32woz8-SgSu3LLI6CExIGZ98QZmjGgqNueSQtXbd8aPI1MafcmAhd6lecjQYDw8qPYLlwwHuWYyUm59QzKftJzZTcHddH4bGiri6vuNujnR8a7-6Yb5IeWNK6dSzayTRzBA0B4xFhZ_w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/vocalfy-hire-singers</a> | Vocalfy | 1864 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1717743600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878626 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/3/25, 8:55 PM | 1718324571 | 1749002121 | 991 | 1189585379024458 | 2 | 7.8325548359256E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209267157870109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718076656 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448203316_310344308800662_792749141087599550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EczqduZ7YtcQ7kNvgEET2sx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDjQP1vV68WlAG1ywxZ_zQDc3J948X310-K0Z5QQ_DuTg&oe=667175BE | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448083956_832855931561996_554009914661398106_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HVyCSzawlFgQ7kNvgGxetM0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBFA3AYPrxpCwIRYoTqveJAieWqK1ueZ-HKKmOygnXZbQ&oe=667170EF | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1878480 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/3/24, 2:19 AM | 1718324568 | 1733213992 | 991 | 434361816032824 | 2 | 1.0157607465575E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120209266561670109 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1664678401027221 | 1718075974 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448087783_2581206035398452_5299877284499154728_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SSTaKR_ZsFsQ7kNvgGx5Vln&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB1s9TTy7UEK5lTI-W6ybVvTyC30w5oRMoAiEYbLRFmXw&oe=6671734C | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448087239_307649759072449_8571726467670196760_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aaOnVvbbIs8Q7kNvgEFZUdi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBsu0haSY7z8kE_KJeN4AW5XtpJ0phroHle7lJP3nLnHg&oe=66716600 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878609 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 7/13/25, 4:10 AM | 1718324571 | 1752397850 | 991 | 1100825764344103 | 2 | 3.2926052110337E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208180200720571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076292 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448066684_450927674338732_558028478959450538_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fl5Zzoxwbk0Q7kNvgHxPkFf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDdfL4WgGY6FZRYBIvu3Z6Cf9Cxk24eVvcsZpJ-B-XwnQ&oe=667144A8 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448023222_1618913515594735_2688203497906251492_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hjVyMMazUVYQ7kNvgERZa6R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCOiRlZxkXu38g-C2DtTGJM9EE50d0ffI3nWg7a_Lqzww&oe=667146A4 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878606 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 12/29/24, 4:24 PM | 1718324571 | 1735489445 | 991 | 1010743947060103 | 1 | 4.4414003490652E+14 | 1718175600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146792230571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897343 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448082139_481460924454371_2469877079609003449_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bY1GCcqfQKsQ7kNvgEFMcE6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDhsQtb0PH6BY_EHVqOHpn6kXS29at79qhi5PlgI3F8cA&oe=667154D1 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447971615_495631172895149_6621897745250385278_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ik9kS6u3WiUQ7kNvgFoOI5V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYArlCAulHLe0MMAfWdU8F-2BUByJoffYRxGkufadQMKvg&oe=667154D5 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878526 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 1/4/25, 1:24 PM | 1718324569 | 1736018655 | 991 | 770134165330124 | 2 | 9.8025033713572E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208146777190571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1717897324 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447740185_907398661193172_3919548380574504834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U44gqALMcxsQ7kNvgHKl2Fs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD3gDoNX3aKyVNiev69QMJSPsAxyw3vBJiM8Y_cszWUHA&oe=66716065 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447784800_2528470180669328_4089362734455233007_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rAqsTtu0XnUQ7kNvgHm2nja&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqJr1ncCdEi3sThnIahWcIIfacixv_EXiMbRgv0GD53w&oe=66715B56 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718002800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878462 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 3/13/25, 12:01 PM | 1718324568 | 1741885319 | 991 | 381636351579222 | 3 | 1.549559712261E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179979100571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718076019 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448160416_3624676871128165_5070484673638476082_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dMoZ0_gRapQQ7kNvgHqr85g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC3qk_B0RiwALnTc4Ypjnbopr-hf-JlmMyGAYmeOFB8Mg&oe=66714B2D | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448020716_1992172284569788_3177578072772479985_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Le9ttnGX-ywQ7kNvgFeMio7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBZvw9mUfyHN_L7x7bgstH7VRuHU2gFGym3RzndD39xDg&oe=6671783C | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718262000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878541 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/8/25, 2:00 PM | 1718324569 | 1749409239 | 991 | 800719515499304 | 3 | 4.7172250200624E+14 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179811800571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075840 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448069661_329055346804072_498914939094979722_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BOCentURNGAQ7kNvgGJjWMT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDALHYGBwAcDaeuKWUb2eOX4LaC5SMg_9v4NR0SlZ8OFA&oe=667173D3 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448218712_987600065912072_2072226700354610344_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fHyLwO99ht8Q7kNvgEPIa7I&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAqwZ9D7ZRB4PBfzF5vaDe9ZalobB_gKNG_ZTO_B3_sDA&oe=66715458 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718175600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1878489 | 1 | active | 6/13/24, 7:22 PM | 6/5/25, 9:08 AM | 1718324568 | 1749132491 | 991 | 444507698508556 | 3 | 1.335060507881E+15 | 1718262000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 108394237578957 | 0 | Fiction books | 120208179790440571 | fbweb.moboreader.net | Learn more | NONE | image | The Mafia King's Doll | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/56398322-fb_contact-eny3896_2-0607-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=458927293167071 | 1718075827 | 1.0839423757896E+14 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447839759_1167642640937154_6495175151931719836_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rhe42u_f5z4Q7kNvgFLcGJA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD6qby43Qv190aCU1M-NZd56kbzHSdsT5nfWcPtTNGwOg&oe=66716556 | person_profile | 0 | Fiction books | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447970643_1901411773612724_7472198475255647575_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sYgKQ0u67FkQ7kNvgGNdkoT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDp9YdCWQq8tmgiIty_4XHvfsotBMl-hg-nkJsEufAFPA&oe=66715FD9 | 0 | 3 | She witnessed the mafia boss kill someone and then fled, hoping to avoid any further interaction. Surprisingly, the ruthless mafia boss fell in love with her at first sight and forced her to become his wife...<br /> =====<br /> "By the end of the year, I'll be one of the bosses of the Cosa Nostra." Giorgio says. "Mark my words."<br /> I almost let out a snort. Listening to my stepbrother go on and on about how important he is in the Cosa Nostra is ridiculous.<br /> Everyone knows there are only five bosses in the Cosa Nostra - Rizzo, Torrisi, Vitale, La Rosa, and Falco. The five families run New York, and no one dares go against them.<br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, I've learned to fear the five families like the rest of the Sicilians who call New York their home.<br /> <br /> Even Giorgio is shit scared of them. He talks big in front of me, but when he has to speak to one of Angelo Rizzo's men, he's pathetically humble.<br /> <br /> Giorgio is all talk, and one day, it will get him killed.<br /> <br /> A girl can hope.<br /> <br /> Instantly, I'm hit with a wave of guilt for wishing my stepbrother dead.<br /> <br /> Forgive me, Father.<br /> <br /> Since my father and stepmother died in a car accident seven years ago, Giorgio took over Papà's place in the Cosa Nostra. It went straight to Giorgio's head, and he's become downright unbearable to live with.<br /> <br /> My aunt on Mamma's side of the family asked Giorgio to let me live with them, but he wouldn't hear of it. Sadly, my mamma died of pneumonia when I was three years old, and my aunt, uncle, and cousin are the only family I have left.<br /> <br /> I was only sixteen, but Giorgio's word was law in our family, so no one dared go against him. Now I'm twenty-three and still stuck with the bastard.<br /> <br /> I suspect he's only holding onto me to get my share of the inheritance that will pay out when I turn twenty-five.<br /> <br /> He's already blown through more than half of his share, wasting it on gambling, alcohol, and women.<br /> <br /> Giorgio was the perfect stepson to my father. Papà even adopted Giorgio as his own, so I can't blame Papà for leaving him in charge of our<br /> <br /> finances. Even I was shocked when I learned what a vile person Giorgio really is.<br /> <br /> Cettina, Giorgio's mother, and Papà got married two years after Mamma died. I was five, and Giorgio was thirteen, so we grew up as brother and sister.<br /> <br /> But overnight, he changed into a different person. One that's violent, selfish, and greedy.<br /> <br /> I don't know what I'll do when I turn twenty-five in two years, but Giorgio won't get a dime from me. I'm hoping I can cash in my inheritance and run to somewhere he won't be able to find me.<br /> <br /> Clearing my throat, I murmur, "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom."<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes are on a beautiful woman who just came in, and he doesn't pay me any attention as I get up from my chair.<br /> <br /> Walking to the back of the restaurant, I glance around the establishment. The place is packed, and even though I've grown up around these people, they all feel like strangers.<br /> <br /> Every Friday we have lunch at Piccola Sicilia. The restaurant belongs to Angelo Rizzo, and I've only seen him a few times. It's never long enough to get a good look at him.<br /> <br /> Not that I want to. The five heads of the Cosa Nostra terrify the living crap out of me. They're known for being brutal when it comes to business.<br /> <br /> Whenever Giorgio was forced to eat a slice of humble pie, I'm the one who suffers. The last time Big Ricky scolded him for being late for work, Giorgio broke two of my ribs.<br /> <br /> He seldom leaves marks on my face because he loves to parade me in front of the single men in the Cosa Nostra. I know he plans to marry me off to one of them, but he's holding out for my inheritance.<br /> <br /> The only solace I can find in the crappy situation is that Giorgio can't force me to marry him. We live in a tight-knit Sicilian community who would disapprove if he tried to marry me. After all, we were raised as brother and sister. It's my only saving grace and also the reason he hasn't<br /> <br /> looked at me in a sexual way. To Giorgio, the only thing that matters is getting his grubby hands on my inheritance.<br /> <br /> I slip into the restroom, and after relieving myself, I wash my hands and touch up my lipstick. My eyes flit over the light peach summer dress I'm wearing, making sure the fabric isn't stuck in my underwear. It happened to Aida when we were fourteen, and I almost died of second-hand embarrassment for my cousin. Since then, I always check my clothes to ensure nothing is out of place.<br /> <br /> My gaze locks on my reflection in the mirror, and I lift my chin.<br /> <br /> Just two more years of this hell, then you can run away and create a new life for yourself.<br /> <br /> As I step out of the restroom to return to the table, an office door opens to my right. Not thinking, I glance in the direction of the sound, and instantly, I'm doused in ice.<br /> <br /> I have a clear view of Angelo Rizzo, who's gripping a man by his neck. I can't hear what's being said, but as Big Ricky comes out of the office, I see Angelo slam a knife into the man's throat.<br /> <br /> Mother of God.<br /> <br /> The squeak escaping me has Big Ricky's eyes snapping in my direction.<br /> <br /> Crap!<br /> <br /> My heart instantly hammers against my ribs, and I quickly dart to the left. I know it's stupid of me to run, but my flight or fight instinct kicks in, and flight always wins.<br /> <br /> I don't even reach the end of the hallway before being grabbed by the arm and hauled back to the office.<br /> <br /> NoNoNoNoNo!<br /> <br /> "I didn't see anything," I plead. Big Ricky ignores me, which has me begging, "I won't tell anyone. Please."<br /> <br /> I'm shoved into the office and stumble forward. My eyes lock on Mr. Rizzo, who's wiping the blood from the knife, and the sight brings me to a dead stop.<br /> <br /> His head is lowered, and focused on cleaning every crimson drop from the blade, he orders with a low and threatening tone, "Remove the body."<br /> <br /> With wide eyes, I watch as the man's body is dragged out of a side door by Tiny, who doesn't even break a sweat. Then again, he's a mountain of a man. The trail of blood smeared on the tiled floor almost makes me gag.<br /> <br /> Father, I've been a good girl. I've never dated and kept myself pure for marriage. I attend church every Sunday. Please get me out of this mess. You owe me.<br /> <br /> Slowly, Mr. Rizzo lifts his head, and when his hazel eyes lock on me, shivers of fear rush through my body.<br /> <br /> Crap.<br /> <br /> Just one look from Angelo Rizzo and my mouth goes bone dry. I swallow hard on the lump of panic in my throat.<br /> <br /> His eyes crawl from my head to the sandals on my feet before they flick to Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> "She saw what happened," Big Ricky explains.<br /> <br /> I quickly shake my head, and my voice quivers as I plead, "I won't tell anyone. I promise."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts his hand, and while his thumb scratches his bottom lip, his eyes lock on me once more.<br /> <br /> The brutality in his gaze delivers a punch to my stomach.<br /> <br /> Father, I don't want to die. Get me out of this mess, and I'll do anything you want.<br /> <br /> Tiny comes back into the office, and without taking his eyes off me, Mr.<br /> <br /> Rizzo hands the murder weapon to him.<br /> <br /> "She's Romano's sister," Big Ricky informs his boss.<br /> <br /> If my heart beats any faster, I'm going to pass out.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo lifts an eyebrow. "Vittoria."<br /> <br /> He knows my name?<br /> <br /> Of course, he does. I'm pretty sure nothing happens in his territory without him knowing.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo takes a deep breath while slowly stalking closer to me. "I haven't seen you since your father's funeral."<br /> <br /> The urge to back away overwhelms me, but by the grace of God, I manage to stand still.<br /> <br /> When he stops mere inches from me, I have to tilt my head back to look up at him.<br /> <br /> If I weren't so freaking terrified, I'd take the time to admire the man's attractiveness. His black hair is in stark contrast with his hazel eyes. There are tiny golden flecks that make it look like flames are burning in his<br /> <br /> brown-green irises. I know he's in his early thirties and still unmarried because he's too busy ruling over his territory with an iron fist.<br /> <br /> When Tiny stands close behind Mr. Rizzo, I realize they're the same height. Easily two and a half heads taller than me.<br /> <br /> Where Tiny is all bulging muscles and brute strength, Mr. Rizzo's body is firmer, giving me the impression of stealth and death cloaked in an expensive suit.<br /> <br /> Tiny has a round face, whereas Mr. Rizzo has a sharp jaw.<br /> <br /> My eyes keep flitting between the two men while I'm overly conscious of Big Ricky behind me.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes remain locked on my face, and when I can't stand the pressure anymore, I whimper, "I won't tell anyone what I saw."<br /> <br /> A frown line appears between his eyebrows, and his words are soft and dangerous as he murmurs, "I know."<br /> <br /> What does that mean? Am I free to go, or is he going to kill me? GOD!<br /> <br /> When Mr. Rizzo suddenly lifts his hand to my face, I cringe back and let out a frightened sound. I pinch my eyes shut, and fisting my hands at my sides, I try to brace for the punch.<br /> <br /> My skin stretches tightly over my cheekbones and jaw, and I clench my teeth.<br /> <br /> Seconds pass, and when I feel something tug at my hair, my eyes fly open.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's gaze watches me closely while he wraps a curl of my hair around his forefinger.<br /> <br /> Confused by what he's doing, I startle again when Giorgio's voice booms outside the office. "For f**k sake. Tori, get your ass out of the restroom!"<br /> <br /> I hear Big Ricky move, then the hinges of the office door squeak, and he says, "Your sister is with Mr. Rizzo."<br /> <br /> "What?" Giorgio gasps.<br /> <br /> I hear more movement behind me, but my eyes remain on the biggest threat in the office. Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> "What did you do?" Giorgio hisses at me.<br /> <br /> A frown forms on Mr. Rizzo's forehead, and as he lets go of the curl, I nervously brush my hand over my hair while quickly taking a step away from the terrifying man.<br /> <br /> Needing to explain myself, I ramble, "As I came out of the restroom, the office door opened. It drew my attention, and I accidentally saw Mr. Rizzo…ah…do something. I didn't mean to look. It just happened." My hand flies to my chest, and covering my racing heart, I swear, "I won't tell anyone."<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's eyes flick to Big Ricky. "Escort Miss Romano to a table and get her a cup of coffee while I speak with her brother."<br /> <br /> Huh?<br /> <br /> Not sure I heard right, I ask, "I get to leave?"<br /> <br /> Mr. Rizzo's penetrating gaze returns to me. "For now."<br /> <br /> Intense relief washes through me as I quickly exit the office with Big Ricky.<br /> <br /> I cautiously glance at Big Ricky, who's not much taller than me. "I'm really sorry."<br /> <br /> With the corner of his mouth lifting slightly, he nods. "It's okay, bellissima." He leads me to a table and nods at the chair. "You can wait here while Mr. Rizzo talks to your brother."<br /> <br /> "Stepbrother," I correct him. Big Ricky looks the least threatening of the bunch, which gives me the courage to ask, "How much trouble am I in?"<br /> <br /> He shakes his head. "As long as you keep quiet, you'll be fine."<br /> <br /> More relief floods me, and with hope filling my heart, I ask, "Really?"<br /> <br /> He nods again before gesturing for a server to come closer. "Bring a cup of coffee for Miss. Romano."<br /> <br /> When the server leaves, Big Ricky looks at me again. "Stay right here."<br /> <br /> I nod and watch as he walks toward a table where three men are enjoying lunch.<br /> <br /> Letting out a breath, I slump in the chair while wiping my palm over my forehead.<br /> <br /> Dear God. That was intense.<br /> <br /> I stare at the table as the terrifying past few minutes replay in my mind.<br /> <br /> Crap, I'm going to be in so much trouble with Giorgio.<br /> <br /> A heavy feeling settles over my shoulders, and I glance at the hallway again.<br /> <br /> I can't believe I just came face-to-face with Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> God, the man is intense.<br /> <br /> And handsome. And freaking scary.<br /> <br /> Now that I'm no longer in the direct line of fire, I realize just how attractive Angelo Rizzo is. I understand why Aida, my cousin, was so infatuated with the man when I saw her a couple of months ago at a family gathering.<br /> <br /> He might be one of the most attractive men I've ever seen, but it doesn't take away from how terrifying he is. If anything, it adds to it.<br /> <br /> Father, it's me again. Thanks for saving my butt.<br /> <br /> My thoughts turn to the murder I witnessed, and it brings all the fear back.<br /> <br /> Growing up in the Cosa Nostra, you'd think I'd be used to crime and corruption, but that's not the case for me. I don't think I'll ever get used to seeing someone die.<br /> <br /> Just two more years, then you can make a clean break from Giorgio and this world.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Angelo's Pov<br /> As Vittoria is escorted out of the office, I walk to my desk and take a seat behind it.<br /> <br /> My eyes flick to Giorgio, who looks like he's about to shit himself.<br /> <br /> He was only twenty-one when he took over from Tony, but during the past seven years, he hasn't done half the work Tony used to do for me. He also has a gambling problem that's starting to cost me money.<br /> <br /> "I hear you like spending time at Fallen Angels," I mutter. The strip club was the first business I opened, so I have a soft spot for the establishment.<br /> <br /> The club has three sections. Heaven, where customers can only watch the girls dance, and Hell, where everything goes. The gambling room is in the third section, called Purgatory.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, the place brings in a fortune. "Yes, sir," Giorgio says.<br /> <br /> When he aims for one of the chairs by my desk, Tiny places a hand against the man's chest before shaking his head at him.<br /> <br /> No one sits in my presence. Well, unless your last name is Rizzo, La Rosa, Torrisi, Falco, or Vitale.<br /> <br /> "What is his tab standing at?" I ask.<br /> <br /> I know the exact amount, but I don't want to give Giorgio the impression I have any interest in his life.<br /> <br /> "Just shy of three hundred thousand," Tiny answers. Lifting an eyebrow, I shake my head.<br /> <br /> Giorgio begins to sweat, the drops beading on his forehead and running down his temples. "I'll settle the tab soon."<br /> <br /> "Yes, you will," I say. "Today."<br /> <br /> His eyes go wide as saucers. "I can't get the money that quick."<br /> <br /> With zero mercy on my face, I mutter, "That sounds like your problem." Tiny takes a threatening step toward Giorgio, which has him rambling,<br /> <br /> "I'll get the money. I just need a month." My eyes narrow on the f**ker.<br /> <br /> His scared gaze darts between Tiny and myself, then he adds, "I'm the only family Tori has left. Please give me a month. I promise I'll get the money."<br /> <br /> I've heard that before.<br /> <br /> Usually, right before I kill someone.<br /> <br /> But the debt is not the reason Giorgio is standing in front of me. If it were, he'd be dead already, and truth be told, tomorrow would've been his last day if it weren't for his little sister.<br /> <br /> Vittoria Romano.<br /> <br /> I've been so busy I haven't realized the girl blossomed into a beautiful woman.<br /> <br /> I'm used to people looking at me with fear, but seeing terror in Vittoria's eyes had a certain part of my body hardening at the speed of light, which was an unusual reaction for me.<br /> <br /> I wonder what it would be like to bend her to my will.<br /> <br /> I have a healthy s*x drive, but lately, all the women seem to blur together. It's become boring as f**k. There's also the matter of my uncle, who's been nagging that it's time for me to take a wife.<br /> <br /> Then, the scared little fawn appeared in front of me, and her doe eyes had my pulse racing faster.<br /> <br /> "Vittoria is twenty-three," I mention.<br /> <br /> The capos of the Cosa Nostra have a right to know the status of any woman who's of marrying age. In most cases, they must give their blessing when a marriage is arranged.<br /> <br /> Giorgio does a double take before his face lights up with relief. "Yes." "She's of marrying age."<br /> <br /> "Yes." His head bobs up and down. "I'm just waiting until she's twenty- five before arranging a marriage for her."<br /> <br /> Finding the f**ker funny, I let out a rare chuckle. "What makes you think you're allowed to arrange a marriage for her?" I lift a hand and wave at the desk. "Did I miss the part where you're the one in charge?"<br /> <br /> Giorgio's eyes widen again. "N-no, sir."<br /> <br /> Why wait until she's twenty-five?<br /> <br /> I push the thought to the back burner. Tiny can look into Vittoria's personal life after I've dealt with her brother.<br /> <br /> Resting my elbows on the desk, I lean forward. "You're not to arrange a marriage for Vittoria without my blessing."<br /> <br /> I want my fill of the woman before she's passed off to whoever I deem good enough.<br /> <br /> Giorgio nods, then asks, "About the debt, sir. Is a month okay?"<br /> <br /> For now.<br /> <br /> I nod and wave a hand at the door, indicating for the f**ker to leave.<br /> <br /> As soon as he's gone, I glance at Tiny. "I want to know everything about Vittoria Romano."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss." He hovers for a moment, then asks, "What do you want me to do with Duncan's body?"<br /> <br /> "Drop it off at his house so his family can bury him." Pulling my phone out of the breast pocket of my jacket, I add, "Pay for the funeral and give his wife fifty thousand. God knows she needs it after putting up with him for so long."<br /> <br /> Big Ricky comes into the office as Tiny leaves. "The girl left with her brother."<br /> <br /> I nod as I scroll through all the emails and messages. "I don't think she'll talk," he mentions.<br /> <br /> I nod again while I look at the meeting scheduled for Tuesday at five p.m. <br /> <br /> Every two weeks, the five heads of the Cosa Nostra meet. In the beginning, it was to keep the peace, but over the years, we've become friends. Now we play poker while talking business.<br /> <br /> My cousin was supposed to take over the Rizzo seat in the Cosa Nostra, but he was assassinated by the Quintero cartel when they tried to move into New York.<br /> <br /> I was nineteen when I took over so my uncle could retire as head of the Rizzo family. He still helps with the business in Sicily and keeps an eye on everything for me, which is something I want to discuss with him. It's time for him to step away from the business so he can enjoy his old age.<br /> <br /> F**k, has it already been fifteen years?<br /> <br /> Time flies when you're making money.<br /> <br /> No wonder Uncle Maurizio's been on my case about getting married. He's scared I'll be taken out before I get the chance to give the Rizzo family an heir.<br /> <br /> The only problem is the women from suitable families are either older than me or still in school. Uncle Maurizio's been dropping hints that I should marry Valentina Toscano, who's from an influential family, but that's never happening. She's six years older than me and batshit crazy.<br /> <br /> Vittoria's beautiful face pops into my mind, but I shake my head because the Romanos are way beneath the Rizzos.<br /> <br /> At least she's f**king Sicilian.<br /> <br /> I shake my head again because I sure as f**k don't want Giorgio for a brother-in-law.<br /> <br /> My gaze lowers to my right hand, and I rub my fingers together as I recall the feel of her silky hair.<br /> <br /> She flinched as if she thought I was going to hit her. A woman only has that reaction when she's been beaten before.<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow as my thoughts turn to my parents. Before they were killed in a hit-and-run, my father used to beat the shit out of my mother. Every other night, her blood coated the walls.<br /> <br /> The world I grew up in has made me a hard man, but I'll never hit a woman.<br /> <br /> Again, the memory of Vittoria flinching ghosts through my mind. I begin to tap my fingers on the desk as she fills my thoughts.<br /> <br /> I'm easily twice her size. Her heart-shaped face is framed by golden brown curls that look like they refuse to be tamed. Her doe eyes hold a mysterious power that has the ability to grab my attention.<br /> <br /> The woman is f**king beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Boss?" Big Ricky says to get my attention.<br /> <br /> I forgot the man was still in the office, and shaking my head to rid my thoughts of Vittoria Romano, I tuck my phone back into my pocket.<br /> <br /> Letting out a sigh, I stand up and mutter, "Let's head over to the club."<br /> <br /> Every day, I'm surrounded by beautiful women, but none of them has grabbed my attention like the little fawn with her wild hair and doe eyes.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Tori&Angelo's Pov<br /> Tori<br /> "You little f**king b**ch!" Giorgio roars as I'm shoved into the house.<br /> <br /> My family home used to be filled with love and laughter before Papà and Cettina, Giorgio's mother, died. Now, it's filled with hopelessness and violence.<br /> <br /> Giorgio's palm connects with the back of my head, and stumbling, I lose my balance. I sprawl over the wooden floor that takes hours to polish, intense pain shuddering through my brain.<br /> <br /> My handbag slides beneath a side table, and before I can push myself up, Giorgio's foot connects with my right side.<br /> <br /> My teeth sink into my bottom lip to keep the cry of pain from escaping.<br /> <br /> The first time he hit me, I was left with a black eye. I couldn't leave the house for two weeks. Everyone at the Parish asked where I was, and it upset Giorgio. Since then, he doesn't touch my face.<br /> <br /> "Because of you, I only have a month to find a f**k-ton of money! I'll have to take a chunk out of my stocks."<br /> <br /> Another kick to my stomach makes theair explode from my lungs. My vision goes spotty, and an agonizing sound bursts over my lips.<br /> <br /> I feel tears fall down my cheeks as I gasp through the pain.<br /> <br /> It doesn't help to beg or argue. If I dare say a word, it will only anger Giorgio more. I manage to curl into a fetal position and wrap my arms around my waist.<br /> <br /> Giorgio shoves his boot against my back and puts his full weight on me as he sneers, "One of these days, I'm going to kill you."<br /> <br /> The pressure eases off my back, and I hear him stomp into the living room.<br /> <br /> Bastard.<br /> <br /> Pushing myself up, I suppress a groan from the pain radiating through my abdomen and torso. I don't bother grabbing my bag from beneath the side table, and using the wall for support, I stumble to my bedroom.<br /> <br /> Shutting the door behind me, I make sure to lock it, and finally, in my safe space, I slide down to the floor until I'm sitting flat on my butt.<br /> <br /> Silent tears roll down my cheeks, and I don't bother wiping them away.<br /> <br /> Just two more years...<br /> <br /> **<br /> <br /> Angelo<br /> For the past two weeks, I haven't been able to stop thinking about Vittoria. After Tiny found out everything he could about her, I had them bring in<br /> <br /> Giorgio. The f**ker was quick to fill in the blanks where she was concerned. It's clear the man has no loyalty to his family.<br /> <br /> But not willing to just believe every word coming out of Giorgio's mouth, I needed to hear it straight from Vittoria. I know she's too f**king terrified to dare lie to me.<br /> <br /> I drink in her beauty as the wind ruffles her curls. Even though her soft brown irises are trembling with fear, she doesn't break eye contact.<br /> <br /> She has more guts than that shady stepbrother of hers, who offered her to me on a silver platter as payment for his debt.<br /> <br /> I told him I'd kill him with my bare hands if he mentioned a word to her while I considered his proposal.<br /> <br /> It aggravates the f**k out of me that Giorgio was so quick to offer Vittoria's innonence to me as payment for his debt. She's worth more than a measly three hundred thousand dollars.<br /> <br /> She's worth more than Giorgio's pathetic life.<br /> <br /> What pisses me off is the fact that he has enough money stashed away in investments on the stock market to pay what he owes me, but he'd rather sacrifice Vittoria's innocence.<br /> <br /> The f**ker is willing to sell her virtue, then once she turns twenty-five, he'll pawn her off to a man who doesn't mind spoiled goods.<br /> <br /> I've also found out why he's waiting until she's twenty-five. Vittoria will get access to her inheritance, and Giorgio probably wants it.<br /> <br /> It f**king infuriates me.<br /> <br /> Staring at the woman who's popped into my mind more than I care to admit, I can clearly see how innocent she is.<br /> <br /> When Tiny looked into Vittoria's life, he couldn't find a single black mark against her.<br /> <br /> Honestly, it doesn't matter to me whether I'm married or not. The notion of loving a woman has never appealed to me, but owning this beautiful woman is definitely tempting.<br /> <br /> "Are we leaving?" Big Ricky asks as I approach him and Tiny.<br /> <br /> "Yes." I walk to the SUV with blacked-out windows, and after climbing into the backseat, I mutter, "Drop me off at the club, then bring Giorgio Romano to me."<br /> <br /> "Yes, boss," Tiny replies while Big Ricky starts the engine.<br /> <br /> During the drive to the heart of Long Island, where Fallen Angels is situated, my thoughts are inundated with the opportunity that's been presented to me.<br /> <br /> Before I laid eyes on Vittoria, I didn't give two shits about getting married. Sure, I knew I'd take the plunge at some point, but there was no urgency.<br /> <br /> There's still no urgency.<br /> <br /> But the thought of having the beautiful little deer warming my bed is just too good to pass up.<br /> <br /> I'll have something no other man has touched.<br /> <br /> The corner of my mouth lifts, but the smile quickly disappears when I think of Giorgio.<br /> <br /> I'm not known for giving second chances, but the sadistic side of me wants to play with the f**ker as if he's a mouse. <br /> <br /> I want to see how far he'll go before I kill him.<br /> <br /> When Big Ricky pulls up to the front of the club, Tiny escorts me inside before returning to the SUV to carry out my order.<br /> <br /> Fallen Angels is closed on Sundays, so besides a couple of workers who are cleaning the place from top to bottom, it's quiet.<br /> <br /> I head straight to my office to double-check the deposits banked over the past week. I have people who do everything for me, but when it comes to money, I don't trust a living soul.<br /> <br /> I keep my circle small because, in my world, it's the only way to stay alive.<br /> <br /> After a while, there's a knock at my office door before Tiny enters, followed by a shit-scared Giorgio, who doesn't look like he's gotten any sleep since we last spoke.<br /> <br /> It makes me recall how tired Vittoria looked.<br /> <br /> Tiny shoves the f**ker forward, and he comes to a staggering stop in front of my desk. My eyes lock on him with disgust, while his pleading gaze is filled with terror.<br /> <br /> I could kill him and just take Vittoria.<br /> <br /> My tone is filled with danger as I mutter, "If I take Vittoria for myself, I won't tolerate any interference from you."<br /> <br /> Confusion flutters over his face before it's followed by relief. "So you're taking her innonence in exchange for wiping the three hundred thousand off my name?"<br /> <br /> I stare at the man until it looks like he's going to piss himself before I say, "I haven't made up my mind yet. If you breathe a word of this discussion to her, it will be the last thing you do."<br /> <br /> "O-of c-c-course," he stammers. "I'm not stupid. The last thing I want is for her to run away."<br /> <br /> Tilting my head, I ask, "Is that something you think she'll do?"<br /> <br /> His head bobs up and down. "Since she was a teen, she's had a stupid dream of living in a small town with a white-picket fence house and the perfect husband. She's keeping herself pure for marriage."<br /> <br /> My eyes narrow on the f**ker for insulting Vittoria's childhood dream. If she marries me, she'll have a f**king castle and everything her heart desires.<br /> <br /> "What else does she dream of?" I demand. "The usual bullshit. Being a mother." That's good to hear.<br /> <br /> Waving a hand, I dismiss Giorgio. The gesture has Tiny gripping the f**kers arm and shoving him out of my office.<br /> <br /> When I'm alone again, I stare at the spreadsheet on my laptop, but I don't see any of the numbers.<br /> <br /> My thoughts are with the beautiful little deer who might become my wife. Knowing she's a flight risk, I begin to devise a plan. If she can't know about the wedding, I'll have to lure her to the ceremony under false pretenses. I also don't want her f**king stepbrother knowing I'm taking more than just her innonence.<br /> <br /> Once I have her in front of the priest, she won't be able to escape and will have no choice but to marry me.<br /> <br /> Do I feel shitty about being prepared to trick a woman into marrying me?<br /> <br /> No. Not one bit.<br /> <br /> In my territory, I take what I want. Vittoria will quickly learn to obey me and be a good wife, and in return, she'll live a life of luxury. She can raise our children while I continue to rule over my empire.<br /> <br /> Deciding that Vittoria will become my wife, the corner of my mouth lifts.<br /> <br /> Soon, the little deer and all her innocence will be mine.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Attending a party with my stepbrother, I'm in for the surprise of my life. It's not a regular party, but instead, my wedding. To Angelo Rizzo. A coldhearted man who's feared by all. Including me. <br /> <br /> Turns out my stepbrother owes the Cosa Nostra money, and I'm being used to repay his debt to Angelo Rizzo. Do I have a choice? No. Not when it comes to matters concerning the Cosa Nostra. <br /> <br /> Three hours later, I have a new shiny wedding ring on my finger and a husband I'm terrified of standing by my side. Yep, my life just took a turn for the worse. There's no hiding. No running. <br /> <br /> All I can do is face the nightmare that awaits me and pray I'll survive being married to Angelo Rizzo.<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &5& | Fiction books | 50888 | https://facebook.com/100075615382269 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1718089200 | View Edit Delete |